Skill: Solve multiplication equations

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

Solving multiplication equations means determining the unknown factor in equations such as $a x=b$ or $x a=b$ , where $a$ and $b$ are typically whole numbers, fractions, or terminating decimals, by using division and the inverse relationship between multiplication and division. The solution preserves equality, can be checked by substitution, and connects symbolic equations to equal groups, arrays, and multiplicative relationships; equations with variables on both sides or more complex expressions are beyond this scope.

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Detailed Explanation: Solve multiplication equations

To solve a multiplication equation, find the unknown factor by using division. Division “undoes” multiplication.

Example:

6x=42

This means $6$ groups of $x$ equal $42$ . To find the value of $x$ , divide both sides by $6$ :

\frac{6x}{6}=\frac{42}{6}

The $6$ on the left cancels:

x=7

So, the solution is:

\boxed{x=7}

Check your answer by substituting $7$ for $x$ in the original equation:

6(7)=42

Since $42=42$ , the answer is correct.

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Linear Equation - One Variable, Two Terms, Simple Display

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