Question 12-n-2

1.2 Linear Equations in One Variable - Variables on both sides
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12n-2t=-2w

The given equation relates the variables n , t , and w , where n>0, t>0, and w>t. Which expression is equivalent to n ?

A.

12tw

B.

6t-w

C.

w-t6tw

D.

6tww-t

12 n - 2 t = - 2 w The given equation relates the variables n

Hard-difficulty · SAT Math · Linear Equations in One Variable — Variables on both sides. Read the question above, select your answer, and check the full explanation below to understand exactly why the correct choice works.

Answer explanation

Choice D is correct. Adding 2 t to each side of the given equation yields  12 n = - 2 w + 2 t . The fractions on the right side of this equation have a common denominator of t w ; therefore, the equation can be written as 12n=2wtw-2ttw, or 12n=2w-2ttw, which is equivalent to 12n=2w-ttw. Dividing each side of this equation by 2 yields 6n=w-ttw. Since n , t , w , and w-t are all positive quantities, taking the reciprocal of each side of the equation 6n=w-ttw yields an equivalent equation: n6=tww-t. Multiplying each side of this equation by 6 yields n=6tww-t.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is equivalent to 1 n rather than n .