13. If \( -7 x=14 \), then \( 14=-7 x \)

Did you know that equations like this are just mathematical statements that show two expressions are equal? In this case, \( -7x = 14 \) tells us that when you multiply -7 by some number \( x \), you get 14. Rearranging the equation can help us find out that \( x = -2 \). It’s like solving a mystery where the ‘x’ is the missing piece! When solving equations, a common mistake is forgetting to perform the same operation on both sides. For example, if you want to isolate \( x \), you can divide both sides by -7. Remember to keep the signs in check! If you accidentally multiply or divide by a negative number without realizing, it can flip the sign of your solution—leading you astray like a wayward bird!