How do you solve #3-5n=42#?

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Answer 1 · 2016-11-28T17:44:47

#n = -39/5#

Step 1) Subtract #3# from each side of the equation to isolate the #n# term and keep the equation balanced:

#3 - 3 - 5n = 42 - 3#

#0 - 5n = 39#

#-5n = 39#

Step 2) Divide each side of the equation by #-5# to solve for #n# and keep the equation balanced:

#(-5n)/(-5) = 39/(-5)#

#(cancel(-5)n)/(cancel(-5)) = -39/5#

#n = -39/5#