4
algebra

If x20=15x - 20 = 15, what is the value of xx?

A

35

B

-5

C

5

D

0.75

Correct Answer: A

Choice Ahoice B is the correct answer. To solve a subtraction equation, we add the same value to both sides.

  1. Start with the equation: x20=15x - 20 = 15
  2. Add 20 to both sides: x=15+20x = 15 + 20
  3. Calculate: x=35x = 35
  4. Verify: 3520=1535 - 20 = 15

Addition consistently undoes subtraction, regardless of the specific numbers involved.

Choice Ahoice C is incorrect because this results from subtracting instead of adding: 1520=515 - 20 = -5. This applies subtraction twice.

Choice Ahoice D is incorrect because this might come from the absolute value of Choice Ahoice C, or from miscalculating 2015=520 - 15 = 5 (wrong order).

Choice Ahoice D is incorrect because this results from dividing: 1520=0.75\frac{15}{20} = 0.75. Division is not relevant for solving subtraction equations.