Question

Two Martians, Splott and Fizzle, have solved the equation 2x + 4 = –3x + 14. Examine the work of Splott and Fizzle. Identify any errors in the Martians’ calculations and explain, using complete sentences, what corrections they should make.

Splott Fizzle
2x + 4 = –3x + 14 2x + 4 = –3x + 14
2x + 4 + 3x = –3x + 14 + 3x 2x + 4 – 2x = –3x + 14 – 2x
5x + 4 = 14 4 = 14 – 5x
5x + 4 + 4 = 14 + 4 4 – 14 = 14 – 5x – 14
5x = 18 –12 = –5x
–12 + 5 = –5x + 5
x = –7 = x