1. What is the best way to deal with an equation with fractions?
There are several ways but a good general method that works for most equations is to multiply each term in the equation by the common denominator. (This will eliminate all of the fractions.)
2. How many solutions do linear equations usually have?
Linear equations usually have ONE solution except in some special circumstances when there may be no solutions or an infinite number of solutions. e.g.
One solution: 3x + 5 = 6
No solution: 3x + 1 = 3x
Infinite number of solutions: 3x + 6 = 3(x + 2)See if you can explain why each equation has the number of solutions it does!
3. What is the difference between an equation and an inequation?
When solving equations and inequations the methods are identical EXCEPT if the inequation is multipied or divided by a NEGATIVE number the inequality sign must be reversed.