Linear Equations: Solving ax + b = 0 Step by Step
A linear equation has one unknown and one solution, if it has one at all. This solver shows the division and the check, not just the answer.
What is the Linear Equation Solver?
Enter the values of a and b in ax + b = 0. The tool divides to find x = -b/a and shows the working. If a is zero there is no single solution: the equation is either always true or never true, and the tool says so plainly.
How to use it
- Enter a, the coefficient of x.
- Enter b, the constant term.
- Click Solve Equation.
Worked example
For 2x + 6 = 0, x = -6/2 = -3, and checking gives 2 x (-3) + 6 = 0.
What is x in 2x + 6 = 0?
x = -3, because moving 6 across gives 2x = -6, and dividing by 2 gives -3.
Frequently asked questions
What if a is zero?
Then x disappears: the equation is either always true or impossible, and the tool reports which.
How do I check the answer?
Put x back into ax + b; the result must be zero.