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