To solve the equation [tex]\( a - 55 = -17 \)[/tex], follow these steps:
1. Start with the given equation:
[tex]\[
a - 55 = -17
\][/tex]
2. To isolate the variable [tex]\( a \)[/tex], you need to eliminate the constant term on the left side of the equation. You can do this by adding 55 to both sides of the equation. This helps to balance the equation.
3. Add 55 to both sides:
[tex]\[
a - 55 + 55 = -17 + 55
\][/tex]
4. Simplify both sides of the equation. On the left side, [tex]\(-55\)[/tex] and [tex]\(+55\)[/tex] cancel each other out, leaving just [tex]\( a \)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
a = -17 + 55
\][/tex]
5. Perform the addition on the right side:
[tex]\[
a = 38
\][/tex]
Therefore, the solution to the equation [tex]\( a - 55 = -17 \)[/tex] is:
[tex]\[
a = 38
\][/tex]
