How to Solve Two Step Algebraic Equations

Two step algebraic equations are relatively quick and easy -- after all, they should only take two steps. To solve a two step algebraic equation, all you have to do is isolate the variable by using either addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. If you want to know how to solve two step algebraic equations in a variety of ways, just follow these steps.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Solving Equations with One Variable

1. Write the problem. The first step to solving a two step algebraic equation is just to write the problem so you can start to visualize the solution. Let's say we're working with the following problem: -4x + 7 = 15.^[1]
   
2. Decide whether to use addition or subtraction to isolate the variable term.^[2] The next step is to find a way to keep "-4x" on one side and to keep the constants (whole numbers) on the other side. To do this, you'll have to do the "Additive Inverse," finding the opposite of +7, which is -7. Subtract 7 from both sides of the equation so that the "+7" on the same side as the variable term is canceled out. Just write "-7" below the 7 on one side and below the 15 on the other so the equation remains balanced.^[3]
   
3. Add or subtract the constant on both sides of the equation. This will complete the process of isolating the variable term. Subtracting 7 from +7 on the left side of the equation will leave no constant term (or 0) on the left side of the equation. Subtracting 7 from +15, on the right side of the equation, will leave you with 8. Therefore, the new equation is -4x = 8.^[4]
   
   • -4x + 7 = 15 =
   • -4x = 8
4. Eliminate the coefficient of the variable through division or multiplication. The coefficient is the number attached to the variable. In this example, the coefficient is -4. To remove the -4 in -4x, you'll have to divide both sides of the equation by -4. Right now, the x is being multiplied by the -4, so the opposite of this operation is division and you'll have to do it on both sides.
   
5. Solve for the variable. To do this, divide the left side of the equation, -4x, by -4, to get x. Divide the right side of the equation, 8, by -4, to get -2. Therefore, x = -2. You've taken two steps -- subtraction and division -- to solve this equation.
   

[Edit]Solving Equations with One Variable on Each Side

1. Write the problem. The problem you will be working with is the following: -2x - 3 = 4x - 15. Before you proceed, make sure that both of the variables are the same. In this case, "-2x" and "4x" both have the same variable, "x," so you can move forward.^[5]
   
2. Move the constants to the right side of the equation. To do this, you'll need to use addition or subtraction to eliminate the constant from the left side of the equation. The constant is -3, so you'll have to take its opposite, +3, and add this constant to both sides of the equation.^[6]
   
   • Adding +3 to the left side of the equation, -2x -3, will give you (-2x -3) + 3, or -2x on the left side.
   • Adding +3 to the right side of the equation, 4x -15, will give you (4x - 15) +3, or 4x -12.
   • Therefore, (-2x - 3) +3 = (4x - 15) +3 = -2x = 4x - 12
   • The new equation should read -2x = 4x -12
3. Move the variables to the left side of the equation. To do this, you'll simply have to take "the opposite" of "4x", which is "-4x," and subtract -4x from both sides of the equation.^[7] On the left side, -2x - 4x = -6x, and on the right side, (4x -12) -4x = -12, so the new equation should read -6x = -12.
   
   • -2x - 4x = (4x - 12) - 4x = -6x = -12
4. Solve for the variable. Now that you've simplified the equation to -6x = -12, all you have to do is to divide both sides of the equation by -6 to isolate the variable x, which is currently being multiplied by -6. On the left side of the equation, -6x ÷ -6 = x, and on the right side of the equation, -12 ÷ -6 = 2. Therefore, x = 2.
   
   • -6x ÷ -6 = -12 ÷ -6
   • x = 2

[Edit]Other Ways to Solve Two-Step Equations

1. Solve two-step equations while keeping the variable on the right side. You can solve a two step equation while keeping the variable on the right side. As long as you isolate it, you'll still get the same answer. Let's take the problem, 11 = 3 - 7x. To solve it, your first step will be to combine the constants by subtracting 3 from both sides of the equation. Then, you'll have to divide both sides of the equation by -7 to solve for x. Here's how you do it:^[8]
   
   • 11 = 3 - 7x =
   • 11 - 3 = 3 - 3 - 7x =
   • 8 = - 7x =
   • 8/-7 = -7/7x
   • -8/7 = x or -1.14 = x
2. Solve a two step equation by multiplying at the end instead of dividing. The principle for solving this type of equation is the same: use arithmetic to combine the constants, isolate the variable term, and then isolate the variable without the term. Let's say you're working with the equation x/5 + 7 = -3. The first thing you should do is subtract 7, the inverse of -3, from both sides, and then multiply both sides by 5 to solve for x. Here's how you do it:
   
   • x/5 + 7 = -3 =
   • (x/5 + 7) - 7 = -3 - 7 =
   • x/5 = -10
   • x/5 * 5 = -10 * 5
   • x = -50

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Read the question carefully.
• When multiplying or dividing two numbers with different signs, (i.e., one positive & the other negative) the result is always negative. If both signs matched, then the solution would be a positive number.^[9]
• If there is no number in front of the x, assume it is a 1x.
• There may not be an explicit constant on each side. If there is no number following an x, assume it is x + 0.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Divide Fractional Algebraic Expressions

[Edit]Quick Summary

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.registerednursing.org/teas/solving-equations-one-variable/
2. ↑ https://www.montereyinstitute.org/courses/DevelopmentalMath/TEXTGROUP-9-14_RESOURCE/U10_L1_T1_text_container.html
3. ↑ http://sites.austincc.edu/tsiprep/math-review/equations/a-general-rule-for-solving-equations/
4. ↑ https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra/one-variable-linear-equations/alg1-variables-on-both-sides/v/equations-3
5. ↑ http://www.algebra-class.com/algebra-equations.html
6. ↑ https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra/one-variable-linear-equations/alg1-two-steps-equations-intro/v/solving-equations-1
7. ↑ https://www.montereyinstitute.org/courses/DevelopmentalMath/TEXTGROUP-9-14_RESOURCE/U10_L1_T2_text_container.html
8. ↑ https://www.chilimath.com/lessons/intermediate-algebra/solving-two-step-equations/
9. ↑ http://www.math.com/school/subject1/lessons/S1U1L12DP.html

How to Clean a Headphone Jack

When your phone or other electronic device is left uncovered in your bag or pocket, the headphone jack can accumulate dirt and lint. Without cleaning, you eventually may not be able to plug in your headphones. Headphone jacks can be cleaned quickly and safely, though. Compressed air blows out debris, but you can also use a cotton swab for tough debris or a taped paperclip to remove lint.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Compressed Air

1. Buy a can of compressed air. These cans can often be found at electronics stores like Radioshack or Best Buy. Compressed air is also used for clearing debris from computer parts, so look where computer parts are sold. Air is least likely to damage your jack since you don't have to put anything inside the hole other than the air.^[1]
   
2. Point the nozzle at the headphone jack. Get the air dispensing opening right up next to the jack. Some bottles come with thin tubes that stick out from the can. These may be easier for you to use since you can point the tube directly at the jack and focus the air into the small opening.^[2]
   
3. Release the air. Press the button on the top of the can to start dispensing air You should only need a blast or two to loosen most debris inside the jack. Make sure all it comes out of the hole.
   

[Edit]Cotton Swabs

1. Purchase cotton swabs. Cotton swabs, also known as Q-tips, can be found at general stores and other locations where health and beauty products are sold. Try to get ones that don't look very fluffy so that pieces don't get left behind in the jack. Swabs with thinner tips work better, because they are easier to fit inside the jack.
   
2. Remove cotton from the swab's tip. On one end of the swab, begin tearing or cutting off cotton. Make the tip as close to the width of the swab's middle portion as possible. Once the swab tip is this size, it should fit comfortably inside the jack.^[3]
   
3. Gently brush the jack. Don't jam the swab into the jack. Slowly push it in until it rests inside the hole. Spin the swab to brush off all sides of the jack. Remove the swab and most debris will fall out.^[4]
   
4. Swab with rubbing alcohol. For difficult debris, you can dip the swab in some rubbing alcohol. Make sure the swab is lightly coated, not soaked or dripping. Squeeze out excess moisture first. Put the swab back inside the jack and spin it again.^[5]
   
   • Rubbing alcohol can corrode the metal, so use it sparingly.
5. Dry out the jack with a clean swab. The rubbing alcohol should dry quickly on its own. However, you can remove excess moisture to minimize the jack's exposure. Stick a clean swab into the jack. Leave it in there for a moment and spin it around to collect the alcohol.
   

[Edit]Taped Paper Clip

1. Unfold a paperclip. Open up the paper clip so that one end is straight. The paper clip can now be used to scrape out debris. However, the metal can still scratch the inside of the jack.
   
   • A toothpick can also be used, but the pointed ends can also scratch the jack's interior.^[6]
   • Needles are useful for reaching lint and large debris, but can easily scratch the jack and should be used as a last resort.
2. Wrap tape around the clip's end. Use standard office tape (like Scotch or Sellotape). Tightly wrap the tape sticky side up around the straightened end of the paperclip. Before use, check to see that the tape is secure and won't come off.^[7]
   
3. Gently insert the tape into the jack. Slowly move the tape into position. Don't jam it in there. Reach for any debris you see. The tape forms a lint roller and will remove stuck debris and lint.
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Warnings

• Be gentle and minimal when putting anything inside the jack. The metal can easily be scratched or corroded.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Compressed air
• Cotton swabs
• Paperclip
• Office tape
• Rubbing alcohol

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://fierytechtips.wordpress.com/2013/02/28/top-5-ways-to-clean-a-headphone-jack/
2. ↑ https://fierytechtips.wordpress.com/2013/02/28/top-5-ways-to-clean-a-headphone-jack/
3. ↑ http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/how-to/a2799/4258816/
4. ↑ http://www.tomsguide.com/faq/id-2375542/clean-headphone-jack.html
5. ↑ http://www.tomsguide.com/faq/id-2375542/clean-headphone-jack.html
6. ↑ https://fierytechtips.wordpress.com/2013/02/28/top-5-ways-to-clean-a-headphone-jack/
7. ↑ https://www.gazelle.com/how-to/iphone/how-to-clean-an-iphones-headphone-jack

How to Wear a Scarf with a Jacket

Scarves are a great way to add a twist to formal and casual jackets alike. Experiment with different colors and sizes of scarves to create different looks. Change up your look by using different knots and draping techniques. Have fun and express your unique style!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Draping Scarves over Informal Jackets

1. Opt for a cross-over knot for a timeless look. Cross the ends of your scarf over and then tuck 1 end up through the gap. Pull both the ends tight to secure the knot in place. Then, leave the ends of the scarf to hang down over your jacket. This helps to make the scarf stand out and creates a great casual outfit.
   
   • This option works best for long scarves, as there is more fabric to hang down over the jacket.
   • Tie your scarf in a cross-over knot and wear it over a leather jacket for an on-trend look.
2. Leave your scarf untied over your jacket for a cool, casual look. Hang your scarf over the back of your neck and allow the ends of the scarf to hang down in front of you. This makes your scarf look a little bit like a shawl and adds another layer to your outfit.
   
   • You can pull off this look with any length of scarf.
3. Wrap a big scarf around your neck with a puffy jacket for a comfy look. Large, wide, and thick scarves all look with great with jackets. Pair your favourite sturdy, thick, or fluffy jacket with an oversized scarf for a fashionable streetwear look. To achieve this look, simply wrap the entire scarf around your neck.^[1]
   
   • A sheepskin jacket and a red scarf would make a great outfit for going out to a cafe with your friends.
4. Opt for an infinity scarf if you want an easy scarf to wear. Infinity scarves are incredibly easy to wear, as they are already in a loop. Simply pull it over your head and wear it over your favourite jacket. These scarves are perfect for informal occasions, such as catching up with friends and going to the movies.^[2]
   
   • These scarves tend to be warm and are great for cold days.

[Edit]Tying a Scarf over a Formal Jacket

1. Opt for a scarf knot for formal occasions. This technique is perfect for formal occasions that require a refined look. Fold the scarf in half and wrap it around your neck. Then, pull the ends through the loop created by the folded end and pull them tight to secure the knot. Leave the ends to hang over your jacket.^[3]
   
   • This technique works with any type of scarf.
2. Use the crossover technique to add colour to a formal jacket. Wrap the scarf around your neck and loosely cross it over at the end. Then, button up your jacket over the scarf to hold it in place. This looks great with suit jackets, as the scarf adds colour to the top of the suit jacket.^[4]
   
   • This technique works best with long scarves.
3. Tie your scarf in a cross-over knot and tuck it in for a tidy look. This is a great option if you want to add warmth or pizazz to a formal outfit. Wrap your scarf around your neck and cross the ends over. Loop 1 end through the gap and then pull both the ends to secure the knot. Tuck the ends into your blazer, suit jacket, or formal jacket.^[5] This works best with thin scarves, such as those made from silk or cotton.^[6]
   
   • If you take your jacket off during the night, take off your scarf as well to ensure that your outfit looks tidy.

[Edit]Selecting Fabrics, Colors, and Patterns

1. Opt for a light scarf in summer. Whilst scarves are traditionally worn in winter, there are plenty of great lighter options. Light scarves are incredibly versatile and are perfect for all occasions. Choose a scarf made from silk, cotton, or linen for a breathable, lightweight option.^[7][8]
   
   • These scarves help to make your outfit look classy and stylish.
   • A silk scarf over a light blazer would be a great outfit for a business lunch.
2. Pick a heavier scarf in winter. Scarves are a great way to keep warm in the cool winter months. Opt for warm fibres, such as merino, cashmere, and cable-knit wool.^[9] If the weather is particularly cool, opt for a long scarf so that you can wrap it around your neck multiple times.^[10]
   
   • Consider purchasing matching gloves to create a cohesive outfit.
3. Choose a small, tidy scarf for formal occasions. Lightweight scarves tend to be more appropriate for formal occasions. If it is a cold day, opt for lightweight wool, such as cashmere. If it is a hot day, pick a breathable fabric, such as silk or linen. This is a great way to add colour to a formal outfit.^[11]
   
   • Purchase a formal scarf from the business section of a department store.
4. Pick a scarf in a contrasting colour to your jacket to make it stand out. This is a great way to add extra colour to your outfit. This works best with a plain scarf and blazer, as patterned items can make your outfit look too busy. Be bold and choose colours that express your personal style!^[12]
   
   • For example, pair a red silk scarf with a navy suit jacket for a business event. Alternatively, wear a yellow scarf with a pink suede jacket if you are going out for a coffee date with friends.
5. Opt for a scarf that’s the same colour as your jacket for a tidy look. This is a great option if you are attending a formal event or if you are wanting to achieve a simple, classy look. For example, pair a navy blue scarf with a navy blue suit jacket to complete your look.^[13]
   
   • To add extra interest to your outfit, consider wearing a scarf with a slight pattern. For example, combine a plain black jacket with an embroidered black scarf.
6. Combine a printed scarf with a plain jacket for a balanced look. A printed or patterned scarf is a great way to add personality to a plain jacket. Consider wearing a scarf with stripes, polka dots, floral print, or geometric shapes. Each of these prints will work well with a plain jacket.
   
   • If you prefer, combine a plain scarf with a patterned jacket for a similar look.

[Edit]Tips

• Purchase scarves from a department store or search online if you want a greater selection.
• Be creative and express your own unique style!

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.onecrazyhouse.com/15-chic-ways-wear-scarf/
2. ↑ https://www.onecrazyhouse.com/15-chic-ways-wear-scarf/
3. ↑ https://www.ties.com/blog/ways-to-tie-scarf-men
4. ↑ https://www.ties.com/blog/ways-to-tie-scarf-men
5. ↑ [v161488_b02]. 24 July 2020.
6. ↑ https://www.gq.com/gallery/how-to-wear-a-scarf-men
7. ↑ [v161488_b02]. 24 July 2020.
8. ↑ https://www.gq.com/gallery/how-to-wear-a-scarf-men
9. ↑ [v161488_b02]. 24 July 2020.
10. ↑ https://www.gq.com/gallery/how-to-wear-a-scarf-men
11. ↑ https://www.gq.com/gallery/how-to-wear-a-scarf-men
12. ↑ https://www.onecrazyhouse.com/15-chic-ways-wear-scarf/
13. ↑ https://www.onecrazyhouse.com/15-chic-ways-wear-scarf/

How to Change Hotspot Name

What's your hotspot's name again? The default hotspot names can be forgettable, boring, or easily mistaken for another hotspot. Luckily, you can change the name on either your iPhone or Android so you can find it easier! This wikiHow article will teach you how to change the hotspot name and password on your iPhone and Android.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Changing the Hotspot Name on iPhone

1. Open Settings. Tap the app icon that looks like a pair of gears on a light grey background.
   
2. Tap . It's usually the first item in the menu next to a gear icon.
   
3. Tap . You'll see this at the top of the menu in the "General" settings.
   
4. Tap . The default might be something like "iPhone" or "[Your Name]'s iPhone."
   
5. Delete the current text and enter the new name. To delete what's already there, tap the x button then use the keyboard to enter a new name.
   
   • When you're done, tap done on your keyboard.
   • This will change both your iPhone's name as well as the hotspot name.^[1]
   • To change your hotspot's password, go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot > Wi-Fi Password and enter the new password.

[Edit]Changing the Hotspot Name on Android

1. Open Settings. You can do this by tapping the gear app icon or by tapping the gear icon in the Quick Menu that opens when you swipe down from the top of your screen.
   
   • This method varies depending on the model of phone you have, but all the steps are similar.
2. Tap . It's usually next to a networked globe icon.
   
   • Some phones, like the Samsung Galaxy, say "Connectivity" instead.
3. Tap the option. This might be called "Mobile Hotspot and Tethering" instead.
   
4. Tap . This might be "Mobile Hotspot" instead and you'll see your hotspot's details.
   
5. Tap your hotspot's name or . If you tapped Configure, you'll need to tap the Network name field to edit it.
   
6. Give your hotspot a new name. Press the backspace arrow on your keyboard to erase the existing text and then you can enter a new name.
   
   • You can also tap the "Password" field to change the current password that you have set for your hotspot.
7. Tap . Make sure you save this changed information before you close out of the menu.^[2]
   

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/change-the-name-of-your-iphone-iphf256af64f/ios
2. ↑ https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00079036/

How to Avoid Microplastics

Microplastics are a real concern—they seem to be found everywhere these days, from the arctic to deep in people's lungs. Everything that's made of plastic eventually breaks down into tiny microplastics that people breathe in, drink, and eat. Unfortunately, microplastics get into waterways and natural food chains, which can eventually lead them straight to your dinner plate. Luckily though, there are tons of easy steps you can take to avoid microplastics. In this article, we'll teach you how you can avoid them in your food and even help limit microplastic pollution in the environment. To learn more, read our complete guide below!

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• As plastic breaks down, it turns into microplastics—or, plastic particles that can cause health problems in humans and animals.^[1]
• Cutting back on plastic production reduces microplastics in the environment (which leads to less microplastics ingested by people, too!).
• In general, the best way to limit your exposure to microplastics is to avoid processed and plastic-packaged foods.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Drink filtered tap water.

1. Tap water contains less microplastic than plastic water bottles. This is especially if you filter your water. If you're in the habit of picking up bottled water when you go out, make the switch to a reusable bottle and fill it up with filtered tap water throughout the day. You'll save money and reduce your microplastic intake!^[2]
   
   • In a large study on microplastics in bottled water, researchers found microplastic in 93% of the samples they tested.^[3] This means you're more likely to drink microplastics if you drink from a plastic water bottle than if you drink filtered tap water.

[Edit]Avoid single-use packaging.

1. Bring your own reusable cutlery and takeout containers. When hot food comes into contact with plastic to-go containers, more of the chemicals leach into your food. The same goes for your morning cup of coffee from a disposable cup, which is lined with plastic. To avoid microplastics in your food, bring your own bamboo utensils or cutlery and have metal or glass containers to package your food.^[4]
   
   • If you place a takeout order, tell them you'll bring your own containers when you pick the food up.
   • Plastic utensils are used for an average of 3 minutes, but the plastic breaks down in the environment for hundreds of years.

[Edit]Store your food in metal or glass containers.

1. Avoid keeping your food in plastic wrap, plastic bags, or plastic containers. When your food comes into contact with plastic for an extended period of time, it's more likely to absorb chemicals from the plastic. Instead, reach for metal or glass containers, and try beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap.^[5]
   
   • To cut back on plastic wrap, get creative with plates—if you cut a lemon or onion in half, turn it upside down so it sits flat on a dish. Then, stick it in the fridge. No need for plastic.

[Edit]Avoid microwaving plastic and microwavable meals.

1. Microwaving food in plastic causes the plastic to break down faster. It's much safer to put your food into a glass or ceramic dish and microwave it. Avoid eating frozen pre-packaged meals that you heat in the microwave. These foods have been in contact with plastic for a long time and heating them up in the plastic can release microplastic into the food.^[6]
   

[Edit]Limit your intake of seafood, especially shellfish.

1. Fish and bivalves like clams and oysters consume plastic in the ocean. When you eat seafood, you ingest those microplastics. While all seafood is exposed to microplastics, mussels and oysters have some of the highest levels.^[7]
   
   • If you like seafood and don't want to give it up entirely, you might choose to skip bivalves and enjoy fish once in a while.

[Edit]Eat more fresh, whole food.

1. Cut back on processed foods since they contain more microplastics. "Processed foods" are usually made in a factory (and typically, they'll have a super long ingredient list). Ultra-processed foods like chips, fast food, fries, and frozen meals contain higher levels of microplastics that break down into phthalates—chemicals that can contribute to chronic disease.^[8] To play it safe, stick with unprocessed or minimally processed food.^[9]
   
   • You may have heard that some produce, like apples and carrots, contains microplastics. While this is true, fresh produce still contains fewer microplastics than processed convenience foods.
   • Tea steeped in bags is actually high in microplastics, so switch to loose leaf tea.

[Edit]Shop for clothes made from natural fibers.

1. Synthetic fibers shed microplastics every time you wash them. In fact, textiles are one of the biggest contributors to microplastic pollution. Read labels when you shop for clothes, sheets, or blankets, and avoid buying synthetic materials—polyester, acrylic, nylon, spandex, rayon, and microfiber. Instead, get cotton, wool, hemp, or linen products.^[10]
   
   • If you can't afford natural fibers, check out secondhand shops. Even if you can't find natural fibers there, buying synthetic clothes from a thrift store is better than buying them brand new.

[Edit]Wash your clothes on a cool, efficient cycle.

1. Wait until you have a full load to run, so fewer microplastics are released. Set the machine to run a low-water or energy-efficient cycle using cold or cool water. If you don't have an energy-efficient option, wash your clothes on a short cycle to minimize the amount of time that your clothes rub against each other, releasing microplastics.^[11]
   
   • Look into getting a filter that attaches to your machine's hose or a ball that catches microplastics from your clothes—empty the ball into your trash to prevent microplastics from getting into the water system.

[Edit]Air dry your clothes instead of using a dryer.

1. Drying your clothes in a machine releases thousands of microplastics. A simple way to drastically cut back on microplastics is to hang your clothes on a line or drying rack to air dry. Your clothes will last longer, too!^[12]
   
   • Researchers found that running a load of laundry through the dryer released microfibers away from the vent—directly into the environment.

[Edit]Shop sustainably to avoid plastic packaging.

1. Head to the bulk bins and use your own cloth bags. Packaging is a huge contributor to microplastic pollution—just look at your weekly grocery haul. The next time you shop, see what foods you can buy from the bulk bins and bring your own cloth bags. Many stores offer a discount for bringing your own bags, so you'll reduce your plastic consumption and save a little money.^[13]
   
   • If you have to buy food that's in plastic, avoid containers with the codes 3 and 6 since these are more harmful than codes 2, 4, and 5.
   • Code 3 plastic is PVC, which leaches phthalates—a chemical that disrupts your hormones.
   • Code 6 plastic is polystyrene or styrofoam, which breaks up really easily into microplastics. It's also a probable carcinogen.^[14]

[Edit]Use plastic-free cosmetics and personal products.

1. Read labels and avoid items that contribute to microplastic runoff. While microbeads have been banned since 2015, microplastics are still in a lot of cosmetics, toothpaste, and skincare products. Shop around and pass on products that contain these plastics:^[15]
   
   • Polythelene
   • Polypropylene
   • Nylon
   • Polymethyl methacrylate
   • Acrylates Copolymer

[Edit]Vacuum and dust frequently.

1. Dust actually contains microplastics, so keep your home clean! Wipe down surfaces in your home and vacuum before you actually notice dust or you may breathe in more microplastics.^[16]
   
   • For the best results, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
   • You may have been told to dust with a microfiber cloth, but microfiber cloths are a huge source of microplastics. Reach for old sheets, towels, or clothes to use as dusting rags instead.

[Edit]Take public transportation.

1. Driving your car causes the tires to break down and release microplastics. This is why cities or areas with traffic congestion have higher pollution. Tire erosion contributes to something called "city dust"—a mix of microplastics from tires, household plastics, and industrial plastic use. To minimize microplastics, use public transit whenever you can to reduce tire erosion.^[17]
   
   • If it's not feasible for you to take public transit, ride your bike instead or carpool with neighbors and co-workers.
   • If you have to drive, combine your errands, so you're being more efficient about driving.

[Edit]Support legislation to reduce plastic use.

1. Read up on relevant legislation and urge representatives to pass it. Pay attention to plastics in politics at the federal, state, and local levels. Call or email your senators and representatives to let them know that reducing plastic production and use is important to you.^[18]
   
   • If you're unhappy with the steps your legislators may or may not be taking, start your own grassroots movement to reduce microplastics in your community. You might just be the change your community needs!

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7068600/
2. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/health-wellness/how-to-eat-less-plastic-microplastics-in-food-water-a8899165110/
3. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6141690/
4. ↑ https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/what-are-microplastics.html
5. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/health-wellness/how-to-eat-less-plastic-microplastics-in-food-water-a8899165110/
6. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/health-wellness/how-to-eat-less-plastic-microplastics-in-food-water-a8899165110/
7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26386204/
8. ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412019317416?via%3Dihub
9. ↑ https://sustainablereview.com/easy-ways-to-reduce-your-exposure-to-microplastics/
10. ↑ https://www.uhhospitals.org/Healthy-at-UH/articles/2022/07/what-are-microplastics-and-how-can-you-reduce-your-risk
11. ↑ https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/znfw7yc
12. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7540867/
13. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/health-wellness/how-to-eat-less-plastic-microplastics-in-food-water-a8899165110/
14. ↑ https://uspirg.org/news/usp/world-health-organization-finds-increased-cancer-risk-chemical-found-plastics
15. ↑ https://www.beatthemicrobead.org/guide-to-microplastics/
16. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/health-wellness/how-to-eat-less-plastic-microplastics-in-food-water-a8899165110/
17. ↑ https://www.uhhospitals.org/Healthy-at-UH/articles/2022/07/what-are-microplastics-and-how-can-you-reduce-your-risk
18. ↑ https://www.oceanicsociety.org/resources/7-ways-to-reduce-ocean-plastic-pollution-today/