The function is defined by the formula y = 13-5x. At what value of the argument is the value of the function exactly -17?

It is known from the condition that the function is given by the formula y = 13 – 5x. In order to find at what value of the argument the value of the function is exactly -17, we compose and solve a linear equation.

We have to substitute y = -17 in the formula and solve the resulting linear equation with respect to the variable x.

-17 = 13 – 5x;

Let’s move the terms without a variable to the right side of the equation, and terms containing the variable x to the left side of the equation.

5x = 13 + 17;

5x = 30;

We are looking for an unknown factor.

x = 30: 5;

x = 6.

Answer: for x = 6 y = -17