Answer:
a=-6
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to solve for a, we must isolate a on one side of the equation.
[tex]2(a+5)=-2[/tex]
2 is being multiplied by (a+5). The inverse of multiplication is division. Divide both sides of the equation by 2.
[tex]2(a+5)/2=-2/2[/tex]
[tex](a+5)=-2/2[/tex]
[tex](a+5)=-1[/tex]
5 is being added to a. The inverse of addition is subtraction. Subtract 5 from both sides of the equation.
[tex]a+5-5=-1-5[/tex]
[tex]a=-1-5[/tex]
[tex]a=-6[/tex]
Let's check our solution. Plug -6 in for a and solve.
[tex]2(a+5)=-2[/tex]
[tex]2(-6+5)=-2[/tex]
[tex]2(-1)=-2[/tex]
[tex]-2=-2[/tex]
This checks out, so we know our solution is correct.
The solution to the equation 2(a+5)=-2 is a=-6
