Question

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what is the answer to this MATH Problem -4 (z-12)=42?

Answer 1

-4(z-12)=42 distribute the -4 
-4z+48=42  subtract 48 from both sides 
      -48   -48
-4z=-6     Divide both sides by -4
z=3/2

Answer 2

-4 (z-12) = 42 equals z = $\frac{3}{2}$ or 1.5

First, divide both sides by -4. Your problem should look like: z - 12 = $\frac{42}{-4}$.
Second, simplify $\frac{42}{-4}$ to $\frac{42}{4}$. Your problem should look like: z - 12 = $- \frac{42}{4}$.
Third, simplify $\frac{42}{4}$ to $\frac{21}{2}$. Your problem should look like: z - 12 = -$\frac{21}{2}$.
Fourth, add 12 to both sides. Your problem should look like: z = -$\frac{21}{2}$ + 12.
Fifth, simplify $- \frac{21}{2}$ + 12 to $\frac{3}{2}$. Your problem should look like: z = $\frac{3}{2}$ which is the answer.

Answer as a fraction: $\frac{3}{2}$
Answer as a decimal: 1.5