Lab: Two-Sided Balancer
Solve multi-step equations on a two-pan balance: apply any operation to both sides until x stands alone.
Balance the equation: 2x + 3 = x + 7
Moves: 0. Goal: get x alone on the left.
2x + 3 = x + 7
Try it
Challenge: solve 2x + 3 = x + 7 in exactly 2 moves.
Press Reset. First remove the x-term from the right, then the number from the left.
Not solved yet.
What to notice: subtracting an x-term works exactly like subtracting a number — both pans stay level, and the equation stays true.
Strategy
Collect the x-terms first (subtract the smaller x-coefficient), then finish like a two-step equation. If the x-terms cancel, watch the ending: a false statement means no solution, a true one means infinitely many.