Often, you need to use both multiplication and division to solve a linear equation. When a linear equation uses both multiplication and division, you solve by using the inverse operation of each. So, if a variable is both multiplied and divided by a number in an equation, you solve the equation for that variable by using a combination of multiplication and division.
Example:
Apply these steps to solve an equation with multiplication and division by trying to solve for a.
Determine the value that divides the variable.
In this case, the 5 is dividing into both the 4 and the variable.
Multiply the values on each side of the equal sign.
Reduce and simplify.
The 5 cancels itself out on the left side of the equation, leaving you with
4a = 12(5)
4a = 60
Determine what is multiplying the variable.
The number 4 is the coefficient and multiplies the a.
Divide the values on each side of the equal sign.
Reduce and simplify.
The 4 cancels itself out on the left side of the equation, leaving you with
