Chapter 8.1, Problem 32E

To determine

Whether $a=-6$ is a solution for the given equation.

Answer to Problem 32E

  $a=-6$ is not a solution for the given equation.

Explanation of Solution

Given:

An equation: $-17-a=-23$

Calculation:

To check whether $a=-6$ is a solution for the given equation or not, we will substitute $a=-6$ in our given equation as shown below:

  $\begin{array}{l}-17-a=-23\left(\text{Given equation}\right)\\ -17-(-6)=-23\left(\text{Substituting }a=-6\right)\\ -17+6=-23\left(\text{Using property (}-)(-)=(+)\right)\\ -11\ne -23\end{array}$

Since both sides of equation are not equal, therefore, $a=-6$ is not a solution for the given equation.