If 5x - 3 = 2x + 12, what is the value of x?

If 5x - 3 = 2x + 12, what is the value of x?

Correct Answer: 5

Step 1: Start with the equation 5x - 3 = 2x + 12.
Step 2: To get all the x terms on one side, subtract 2x from both sides. This gives you 5x - 2x - 3 = 12.
Step 3: Simplify the left side. 5x - 2x is 3x, so now you have 3x - 3 = 12.
Step 4: Next, add 3 to both sides to get rid of the -3. This gives you 3x = 12 + 3.
Step 5: Simplify the right side. 12 + 3 is 15, so now you have 3x = 15.
Step 6: Finally, divide both sides by 3 to solve for x. This gives you x = 15 / 3.
Step 7: Simplify the division. 15 divided by 3 is 5, so x = 5.

Linear Equations – The question tests the ability to solve a linear equation by isolating the variable.
Algebraic Manipulation – It assesses skills in rearranging and simplifying equations correctly.