student says that if 5x2 = 20, then x must be equal to 2. Do you agree or disagree with the student? Justify your answer.

Question

Mathematics

Jazmin Ayala

11 September, 11:47

student says that if 5x2 = 20, then x must be equal to 2. Do you agree or disagree with the student? Justify your answer.

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Answers (2)

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Mario Lutz · Answer 1

5x^2 = 20

x^2 = 20/5

x^2 = 4

x = sqrt 4

x = 2 ... yes, I agree. Because 5 (2^2) = 5 (4) = 20 ... but keep in mind, since it is the sqrt of 4, - 2 can also be correct

Randall Gay · Answer 2

I disagree. If each side of the equation is divided by 5, the result is x2 = 4. By the square root property of equality, x = - 2 or x = 2. So x could be - 2 instead of 2.