If the variable was replaced with a number how would you simplify?

it's equivalent, so we can say that its equal.

let's call the denominator x and the numerador is 18 less then denominator, x - 18.

multiply

2.x = 5.(x - 18)

2x = 5x - 90

90 = 5x - 2x

90 = 3x

x = 90/3

x = 30

so:

problem:

f(x) = - 2/3x + 5; f(5/2)

substitute 5/2 in for x:

f(5/2) = -2/3(5/2) + 5

simplify the right side:

f(5/2) = -5/3 + 5

f(5/2) = 10/3

f(5/2) = 10/3

i hope this !