Question

when solving \\(\frac{ab + c}{d} = e\\) for \\(a\\), what is the first step?
\\(\circ\\) a. add \\(c\\) to both sides
\\(\circ\\) b. multiply both sides by \\(d\\)
\\(\circ\\) c. divide both sides by \\(b\\)
\\(\circ\\) d. subtract \\(c\\) from both sides

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the goal

Solve for \(a\) in \(\frac{ab + c}{d} = e\).

Step2: Eliminate denominator

Multiply both sides by \(d\):
\(ab + c = ed\)
This removes the fraction, simplifying the equation to isolate terms with \(a\). Other steps (like subtracting \(c\) or dividing by \(b\)) come later, so multiplying by \(d\) is the first step.

Answer:

b. Multiply both sides by \(d\)