Solving 5x - 4 When X = 2: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey guys! Ever stumble upon a math problem and think, "Whoa, where do I even begin?" Well, don't sweat it! Today, we're diving into a super simple algebra problem: solving the equation 5x - 4 when x = 2. It's all about substituting a value and doing some basic arithmetic. Trust me, it's easier than you think. This guide will walk you through each step, making sure you grasp the concept and feel confident tackling similar problems in the future. We'll break down the process, ensuring you understand not just how to solve it, but why the steps work the way they do. So, grab your pencils, and let's jump right in! We'll start with the fundamentals, making sure everyone is on the same page before we delve into the core of the problem. Get ready to flex those brain muscles, because by the end, you'll be a pro at solving this type of equation. This is not just about finding the answer; it's about building a solid foundation in algebra that will serve you well in various mathematical adventures. It's like learning the alphabet before writing a novel. Understanding the basics makes everything else so much easier to comprehend.

Understanding the Basics: Variables, Equations, and Substitution

Alright, before we get our hands dirty with the equation 5x - 4, let's quickly recap some fundamental concepts. First off, what's a variable? Simply put, a variable is a symbol (usually a letter, like 'x') that represents an unknown value. In our equation, 'x' is the variable. Next up, we have an equation. An equation is a mathematical statement that shows two expressions are equal. It always contains an equals sign (=). Our problem, 5x - 4 = ?, is an equation (though, to be fully precise, we'll be evaluating an expression). Now, here's where the magic happens: substitution. Substitution is the process of replacing a variable with its given value. In our case, we know x = 2. So, we'll substitute 'x' with '2' in the equation. Think of it as swapping one thing for another. That's essentially what we're doing here! This step is critical, because it turns a problem with an unknown into one we can solve using basic arithmetic. The beauty of this process is its versatility. You can use it in various algebraic contexts, whenever you're provided with the value of a variable. This makes it a core concept to understand. Now that we have covered the basics, you are now well prepared to move forward. This foundation will make everything that follows much more understandable and enjoyable. Let's make sure that everyone is on the same page. Then, you will be prepared for all the upcoming topics.

We'll move on to the actual solution in the next section, breaking down each step. Just keep in mind that understanding these preliminary concepts is vital. After all, the better you understand the building blocks, the better you'll understand the final structure.

Step-by-Step Solution: Calculating 5x - 4 When x = 2

Okay, guys, time to get down to business! Now that we know the basics, let's go step-by-step to solve 5x - 4 when x = 2. It’s like following a recipe; if you follow each step, you can reach the correct answer. The process is very straightforward, and we will make it very easy to follow. Remember, the goal is to substitute the variable and use arithmetic to arrive at a solution. Here we go!

Step 1: Write the original expression: First things first, let's write down the expression we're working with: 5x - 4. This is our starting point. Keep it simple and don't skip this part! It helps ensure that you don't miss anything. Always start from the beginning to avoid any confusion. That way, you won't need to backtrack later on.

Step 2: Substitute the value of x: The value of x is 2, so we replace 'x' with '2' in the expression. This gives us: 5(2) - 4. Notice how we put the '2' inside the parentheses? This is the standard in algebra, making sure you know the 5 is multiplied by the new value of x.

Step 3: Perform the multiplication: Next, we multiply 5 by 2: 5 * 2 = 10. Our expression now becomes: 10 - 4.

Step 4: Perform the subtraction: Finally, we subtract 4 from 10: 10 - 4 = 6. And there you have it! The answer is 6. In this step, we've arrived at the final solution. The entire process involved simply plugging in a value and carrying out a few basic calculations. That's all it takes! We've transformed a simple equation into a solution, proving that algebra doesn't have to be complicated or scary.

Verification and Conclusion

Great job, everyone! We've made it through the problem, and we've got an answer. But, how can we be sure we got it right? Let's verify our answer. In this case, verification is extremely simple. We can retrace our steps, which makes it easy to spot any mistakes. Start with the original equation (5x - 4). Then, substitute x with 2: 5(2) - 4. Then we calculated the following; 5*2= 10 and 10-4=6. In this case, since the steps are straightforward, you can quickly double-check your work. You can also swap the order of the calculations, but the result should still be the same. That is a good way to double-check that you get the same result as before. Keep practicing, and you'll find that solving these equations becomes second nature. It's all about practice and repetition, and pretty soon, you'll be solving these problems like a math wizard. You can explore more complex problems or use what you've learned here as a basis for other mathematical concepts. Either way, congratulations on successfully navigating this problem! Always remember, the more you practice, the more confident you'll become. So, keep up the great work, and happy solving! By mastering this simple problem, you've equipped yourself with a fundamental skill that will serve you well. You are ready to tackle more complex algebraic problems. Keep exploring and challenging yourself, and remember that every problem you solve is a step forward in your mathematical journey.

Final Answer

Therefore, when x = 2, 5x - 4 = 6. Boom! You did it!