2/3a= -15 - a Please Explain

Hi there! :)

a = -9

Step-by-step explanation:

Starting with:

2/3a = -15 - a

Solve for 'a' by isolating the variable:

2/3a = -15 - a

On the right-hand side of the equal sign, make 'a' have a common denominator of 3 to make the simplifying easier:

2/3a = -15 - 3/3a

Add 3a/3 to both sides:

5/3a = -15

Divide both sides by 5/3, or multiply by its reciprocal (3/5)

5/3a(3/5) = -15(3/5)

a = -9

1/800 is the right answer