8 times what equals 48
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To find the number that, when multiplied by 8, equals 48, we can set up the equation:
[
8 \times x = 48
]
To isolate ( x ), we need to divide both sides of the equation by 8:
[
x = \frac{48}{8}
]
Calculating this gives:
[
x = 6
]
Thus, the number that satisfies the equation is 6.
Explanation:
Multiplication is one of the basic arithmetic operations that combines numbers to find a total amount. When we say “8 times what equals 48,” we are looking for a number that, when multiplied by 8, will result in 48. In mathematical terms, we can represent this as an equation.
In our equation ( 8 \times x = 48 ), ( x ) represents the unknown number. To solve for ( x ), we need to perform an operation that will isolate ( x ) on one side of the equation. Here, we chose to divide both sides by 8. This operation is based on the principle that whatever we do to one side of the equation, we must also do to the other side to maintain equality.
By dividing both sides by 8, we essentially reverse the multiplication, allowing us to find the value of ( x ). The division ( 48 \div 8 ) simplifies the problem, and when we compute that, we find that ( x = 6 ).
Understanding this process is fundamental not just in arithmetic but also in algebra. The ability to manipulate equations and isolate variables is a skill that is foundational for more complex mathematical concepts. Moreover, mastering these basic operations builds confidence and problem-solving skills that are applicable in everyday life, from budgeting to cooking and beyond.