How Do You Solve the Absolute Value Equation -3|x+5| + 1 = 7|x+5| + 8?

In summary, an absolute value equation is an equation that involves an absolute value expression, which represents the distance between a number and zero on a number line. To solve an absolute value equation, the absolute value expression must be isolated and the equation must be split into two separate equations. The properties of absolute value equations include the absolute value of a sum, product, and quotient. Multiple solutions are possible for an absolute value equation. These equations are used in various fields of science and engineering, as well as in everyday life and in computer science and statistics.
  • #1
mathdad
1,283
1
-3|x+5| + 1 = 7|x+5| + 8 Solution:

-3|x+5| – 7|x+5| = 7
-10 |x+5| = 7
|x+5| = -7/10
x+5 = ±(-7/10)
x = ±(-7/10) – 5

x₁ = -7/10 – 5
x₁ = -57/10

x₂ = 7/10 – 5
x₂ = 2/10
x₂ = 1/5

Correct?
 
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  • #2
RTCNTC said:
-3|x+5| + 1 = 7|x+5| + 8 Solution:

-3|x+5| – 7|x+5| = 7
-10 |x+5| = 7
|x+5| = -7/10

When you reach this point, then you should observe that you have a problem...can you identify the problem?
 
  • #3
MarkFL said:
When you reach this point, then you should observe that you have a problem...can you identify the problem?

The problem is |x+5| = -7/10. More clearly, the problem is the negative -7/10.
 
  • #4
No solution is the answer.
 

FAQ: How Do You Solve the Absolute Value Equation -3|x+5| + 1 = 7|x+5| + 8?

What is the definition of an absolute value equation?

An absolute value equation is an equation that contains an absolute value expression, which is a mathematical notation that indicates the distance between a number and zero on a number line. It is represented by two vertical bars surrounding the number or variable inside.

How do you solve an absolute value equation?

To solve an absolute value equation, you must first isolate the absolute value expression on one side of the equation. Then, you must split the equation into two separate equations, one with a positive value and one with a negative value. Solve each equation separately and check your solutions to make sure they satisfy the original equation.

What are the properties of absolute value equations?

The main properties of absolute value equations are:

  • For any number or variable x, |x| = x if x is positive or 0, and |x| = -x if x is negative.
  • The absolute value of a sum is equal to the sum of the absolute values: |a + b| = |a| + |b|.
  • The absolute value of a product is equal to the product of the absolute values: |a * b| = |a| * |b|.
  • The absolute value of a quotient is equal to the quotient of the absolute values: |a / b| = |a| / |b|.

Can an absolute value equation have more than one solution?

Yes, an absolute value equation can have more than one solution. This usually happens when the equation contains more than one absolute value expression and the resulting equation has multiple solutions that satisfy the original equation.

How are absolute value equations used in real life?

Absolute value equations are used in various fields of science and engineering, such as physics, chemistry, and economics. They are also used in everyday life, for example, to calculate distances, temperatures, and prices. In addition, they are an important tool in computer science for programming algorithms and in statistics for analyzing data.

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