Question

solve: \\(|a + 3| = 2\\)

\\(a =\\)

(enter your solutions, separated by commas. if no solution exists, enter dne)

Explanation:

Set up the two cases for the absolute value equation

$$ |a + 3| = 2 \implies a + 3 = 2 \quad \text{or} \quad a + 3 = -2 $$

Solve the first case

$$ a + 3 = 2 \implies a = 2 - 3 \implies a = -1 $$

Solve the second case

$$ a + 3 = -2 \implies a = -2 - 3 \implies a = -5 $$

Answer:

Solve: \(|a + 3| = 2\)

\(a =\) <blank>-1, -5</blank>