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Answer:
- D. Multiply/divide both sides by the same variable expression.
- No
Step-by-step explanation:
1) Comparing the two equations, we see that the multiplier 'x' is missing from both sides in equation B. That is, it has been divided out:
(5x)/x = (3x)/x ⇒ 5 = 3
Both sides have been divided by x.
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2) The equations are equivalent if and only if x ≠ 0. Unfortunately, in equation A, the only solution is x = 0. For equations like the one in A, it is better to subtract one side from both:
5x -3x = 3x -3x ⇒ 2x = 0
Now, dividing by 2, it is clear that the solution is x = 0.
Equations A and B are not equivalent, because the condition on the division property of equality was violated (you cannot divide by 0).
