Question 14 (5 points)

When solving [tex]$4x - 3 = 5$[/tex], the property used in the first step is the ______ property of equality.

A) division
B) transitive
C) addition
D) substitution



Answer :

To solve the equation [tex]\(4x - 3 = 5\)[/tex], we start by isolating the variable [tex]\(x\)[/tex]. Here are the detailed steps:

1. Start with the original equation:
[tex]\[ 4x - 3 = 5 \][/tex]

2. Add 3 to both sides of the equation:
This uses the addition property of equality. By adding 3 to both sides, we aim to eliminate the constant term on the left-hand side.
[tex]\[ 4x - 3 + 3 = 5 + 3 \][/tex]

3. Simplify both sides:
On the left side, [tex]\(-3 + 3\)[/tex] cancels out, and on the right side, [tex]\(5 + 3 = 8\)[/tex].
[tex]\[ 4x = 8 \][/tex]

Thus, the property used in the first step to isolate the variable [tex]\(x\)[/tex] is the addition property of equality.

Therefore, the correct answer is:
C) addition