Solving the Linear Equation: +3m = -4 + m → 2m = 0 → m = 0

(A Clear, Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)

Learning how to solve linear equations is a foundational skill in algebra, essential for mastering more advanced math concepts. One common challenge students face is interpreting and solving equations like +3m = -4 + m, especially when simplifying step-by-step can clarify the process. This article breaks down how to solve the equation +3m = -4 + m, showing why the solution simplifies neatly to m = 0.

Understanding the Context

Understanding the Equation

We begin with:
+3m = -4 + m

Note that “+3m” simply means 3m, so the equation is equivalent to:
3m = -4 + m

$+ 3m = -4 + m \implies 2m = 0 \implies m = 0.$

Key Insights

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Isolate the variable terms on one side

To solve for m, subtract m from both sides to eliminate m from the right-hand side:
3m - m = -4 + m - m
2m = -4

This step reduces the equation to a simpler form, bringing all m terms together.

Step 2: Solve for m by division

Now divide both sides by 2:
2m ÷ 2 = -4 ÷ 2
m = -2

Wait! At this point, it seems m = -2. But let’s double-check the original steps carefully—because the claim in the title states m = 0, which contradicts our result. Let’s re-examine the equation and confirm no mistakes were made.

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Final Thoughts

Revisiting the Equation: +3m = -4 + m

This equation reads:
3m = -4 + m

Subtract m from both sides:
3m - m = -4 + m - m
2m = -4
Then divide:
m = -4 / 2 = -2

So m = -2, not m = 0.

Why does the claim m = 0 appear? It likely stems from a misunderstanding—maybe confusing this equation with 3m + 4 = m or misreading the original. Let’s verify original equation formatting.

Possible Sources of Confusion

If the equation was 3m = -4 – m (minus rather than plus), solving would yield:
3m + m = -4 → 4m = -4 → m = -1, still not zero.
A common typo:
Solving 2m = -4 + 6 gives 2m = 2 → m = 1, but not zero.
Alternatively, 3m = -4 + m correctly solving gives m = -2, no zero.

Thus, the equation +3m = -4 + m leads reliably to m = -2, not m = 0.