Question

when the equation $a - bx = cx + d$ is solved for $x$, the result is $x = \frac{a - d}{b + c}$
use the general solution to solve $5 - 6x = 8x + 17$.

Explanation:

Step1: Match values to general form

Identify $a=5$, $b=6$, $c=8$, $d=17$

Step2: Substitute into general formula

Substitute values into $x=\frac{a-d}{b+c}$:
$x=\frac{5-17}{6+8}$

Step3: Simplify numerator and denominator

Calculate numerator: $5-17=-12$
Calculate denominator: $6+8=14$
$x=\frac{-12}{14}$

Step4: Reduce the fraction

Simplify $\frac{-12}{14}$ to lowest terms:
$x=-\frac{6}{7}$

Answer:

$x=-\frac{6}{7}$