Algebra

-7n + 20

Step-by-step solution with explanation

Final Answer

— already fully simplified. No solution exists because this is an expression, not an equation.

Step-by-step solution

1

Identify what we have here

This is an expression, not an equation. There is no equals sign, so there is nothing to solve. We can only simplify or evaluate it.
2

Check if any like terms exist

We have two terms: (a variable term) and (a constant). These are NOT like terms because one has a variable and one does not, so they cannot be combined.
3

Expression is already fully simplified

Since there are no like terms to combine and no equation to solve, the expression stays as . This is the simplest form.

Understanding this problem

Learning Insight

An expression and an equation are different things. An equation has an equals sign (like ) and can be solved for a variable. An expression has no equals sign, so it has no single solution — its value changes depending on what is.

Quick Tip

If you see no equals sign, you cannot 'solve' — you can only simplify. Ask yourself: 'Is there an = sign?' before trying to find a value for the variable.

Common Mistake

Students often set the expression equal to zero on their own and solve , but that changes the original problem. Only do that if the problem actually says '= 0'.