9.6 Chapter summary

• To solve a linear equation, we do the same thing to both sides of the equation to get the variable on its own.
• An additive inverse is a number that results in the answer \(0\) when added to the original number.
• A multiplicative inverse is a number that results in the answer \(1\) when multiplied by the original number.
• The multiplicative property of \(1\) states that the product of any number and \(1\) is that number. For example, \(25 \times 1 = 25\).
• The additive property of \(0\) states that the sum of any number and \(0\) is that number. For example, \(100 + 0 = 100\).
• A reciprocal is the inverse (or opposite) of a value. The product of the number and its reciprocal is equal to \(1\).
• There are many different ways that you can solve linear equations. These three steps will always get you to the right answer:
  • Simplify each side of the equation (remember order of operations).
  • Get the variables on the left hand side.
  • Use inverse operations to isolate the variable.