|2x + 12| = 18
First, break down the problem into 2 equations . / 2x + 12 = 18 and -(2x + 12) = 18
Second, solve the first equation. / [tex]2x + 12 = 18[/tex]
Subtract 12 from both sides. / [tex]2x = 18 - 12[/tex]
Subtract 18 - 16. / [tex]2x = 6[/tex]
Divide both sides by 2. / [tex]x = \frac{6}{2} [/tex]
Simplify. / [tex]x = 3[/tex]
Third, solve the second equation. / -(2x + 12) = 18
Simplify your brackets. / [tex]-2x - 12 = 18[/tex]
Add 12 to both sides. / [tex]-2x = 18 + 12[/tex]
Add 18 + 12. / [tex]-2x = 30[/tex]
Divide both sides by -2. / [tex]x = \frac{30}{-2} [/tex]
Simplify. / [tex]x = -\frac{30}{2} [/tex]
Simplify. / [tex]x = -15[/tex]
Fourth, collect the solutions. / [tex]x = -15,3[/tex]
Answer: x = -15, 3
