1. The problem asks about linear equations and non-equations. 2. A linear equation is an algebraic equation where each term is either a constant or the product of a constant and a single variable. 3. It can be written in the form $$ax + b = 0$$ where $$a$$ and $$b$$ are constants and $$x$$ is the variable. 4. A non-equation is an expression or statement that does not contain an equality sign ($=$) and thus is not an equation. 5. Examples: - Linear equation: $$2x + 3 = 7$$ - Non-equation: $$3x + 5$$ (this is an expression, not an equation) 6. To solve a linear equation, isolate the variable by performing inverse operations. 7. For example, solving $$2x + 3 = 7$$ involves subtracting 3 from both sides: $$2x = 4$$ then dividing both sides by 2: $$x = 2$$ 8. Expressions (non-equations) like $$3x + 5$$ can be simplified or evaluated if $$x$$ is known but cannot be solved since there is no equality. Final answer: A linear equation contains an equal sign and can be solved; a non-equation lacks an equal sign and cannot be solved.