Solution of an Equation - Definition and Examples


The solution of an equation is a number that makes the equation true. For example, 3 is a solution of the equation x + 4 = 7 since 3 + 4 is equal to 7. 

The number of solutions of an equation depends on the equation you are dealing with. Linear equations usually have one solution. Quadratic equations usually have 1 or 2. Polynomial equations with a degree n may have at the most n solutions.

A couple of easy examples showing how to find the solution(s) of an equation


Example #1

Find the solution of x - 3 = 8

Add 3 to each side of the equation

x - 3 + 3 = 8 + 3

x = 11

The solution of x - 3 = 8 is 11

Example #2

Find the solution of 4x + 2 = 18

Subtract 2 from each side of the equation

4x + 2 - 2 = 18 - 2

4x = 16

Divide each side by 4

4x / 4 = 16 / 4

x = 4

The solution of 4x + 2  = 18 is 4

For more complicated examples, check this lesson about solving quadratic equations

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