b. \( 0.25(x-2)=0.3+0.2 x \) \[ w= \]

To solve the equation \( 0.25(x-2) = 0.3 + 0.2x \), first distribute the \( 0.25 \) on the left side, giving you \( 0.25x - 0.5 = 0.3 + 0.2x \). Next, rearrange the equation to bring all terms involving \( x \) to one side and constant terms to the other. Adding \( 0.5 \) to both sides results in \( 0.25x = 0.8 + 0.2x \). Subtract \( 0.2x \) from both sides to isolate \( x \), leading to \( 0.05x = 0.8 \). Finally, divide by \( 0.05 \) to find \( x = 16 \). In the real world, equations like this one pop up more often than you might think! Whether you're budgeting finances, calculating measurements in baking, or figuring out doses in medicine, understanding how to manipulate linear equations is super handy. Not only do you sharpen your math skills, but you also gain a powerful tool for problem-solving in everyday situations!