To solve this equation, we need to first combine like terms on both sides and then isolate the variable.

2x - 5 = x + 9 - 1.5

First, let's combine like terms on the right side:

2x - 5 = x + 7.5

Now, let's subtract x from both sides to isolate the variable:

2x - x = 7.5 + 5

x = 12.5

Therefore, the solution to the equation is x = 12.5.