What is 4 times something equals 60
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To solve the equation ( 4 \times x = 60 ), where ( x ) is the unknown variable, you can follow these steps:
- Identify the Equation: The equation we have is ( 4x = 60 ). Here, ( 4 ) is the coefficient of ( x ), and ( 60 ) is the product we want to reach.
- Isolate the Variable: To find ( x ), we need to isolate it on one side of the equation. This is done by dividing both sides of the equation by ( 4 ):
[
x = \frac{60}{4}
] - Perform the Division: Now, calculate ( \frac{60}{4} ):
- Divide ( 60 ) by ( 4 ).
- The calculation is straightforward: ( 4 ) goes into ( 60 ) a total of ( 15 ) times, because ( 4 \times 15 = 60 ).
- State the Solution: Therefore, ( x = 15 ).
Explanation
The equation ( 4x = 60 ) can be understood as a scenario where you have four equal parts of a certain quantity ( x ), and these four parts together sum up to ( 60 ). To determine the value of ( x ), you need to find out how much one part (or one ( x )) is worth when four of them make up ( 60 ).
Dividing by ( 4 ) is essential here because it allows us to break down the total amount into equal parts. This operation is foundational in algebra, emphasizing the importance of maintaining equality in equations. Each operation you perform on one side of the equation must also be performed on the other side to keep the equation balanced.
This concept of balance and isolation is crucial not only in mathematics but also in problem-solving across various fields. Whether in budgeting, dividing resources, or analyzing data, the principles of equality and fair division are universally applicable. Thus, we find that ( 15 ) is the correct answer, representing the value of each individual part when the total is ( 60 ).