Write an equation to represent the following statement

Write an equation to represent the following statement. 33 is 15 less than k.

The correct answer and explanation is:

Equation:

The equation that represents the statement “33 is 15 less than k” is: 33=k−1533 = k – 15

300-Word Explanation:

To write an equation that represents a given word statement, it’s important to understand what each part of the sentence means mathematically. Let’s break down the statement: “33 is 15 less than k.”

1. Understanding the phrase “15 less than k”:
   This phrase can be a little tricky. It tells us we are subtracting 15 from k. A common mistake is to write this as 15 – k, but that would actually mean “k less than 15,” which is the reverse of what we want. To express “15 less than k” correctly, think of it as: k−15k – 15 This means you start with k, and take away 15.
2. Now look at the entire sentence: “33 is 15 less than k”:
   The word “is” in math usually means “equals.” So we translate it into the equals sign (=). Putting it all together:
   • The phrase “15 less than k” becomes k – 15.
   • “33 is” means 33 =.
   So we write: 33=k−1533 = k – 15
3. Interpreting the equation:
   This equation says that if you subtract 15 from some number k, you get 33. In other words, k is 15 more than 33.
4. Solving the equation (optional for understanding):
   To find k, you can add 15 to both sides: 33+15=k⇒k=4833 + 15 = k \Rightarrow k = 48 So k = 48, confirming the relationship: 33 is indeed 15 less than 48.

In summary, the equation 33 = k – 15 accurately models the original statement and illustrates how language can be translated into mathematical expressions.