Balance Scale (Solve with visual)

Free interactive math game: Balance Scale — Solve with visual. Part of the Equations category on MathKite.

Example problems

Taken from the generator that powers this exercise. A fresh set appears every time the page is opened, and the printable worksheet holds ten of them.

  1. The scale is balanced. What is the value of x?

About this exercise

A balance puzzle, which is an equation drawn as a picture.

How to solve it

The two pans hold equal weights. Remove the same items from both sides until only the unknown is left.

Worked example

If three blocks balance 12 kg, one block is 4 kg.

Common mistake

Removing from one pan only. That tips the balance and destroys the equation.