Question

linear equations w/ distribution (lev 2)
score: 2/3 penalty: none
question
solve for x.
-3(-x + 2) - x + 4 = -12

Explanation:

Step1: Distribute -3

Multiply -3 with each term inside the parentheses: $-3(-x) + (-3)(2) - x + 4 = -12$ which simplifies to $3x - 6 - x + 4 = -12$.

Step2: Combine like terms

Combine the x - terms and the constant terms: $(3x - x) + (-6 + 4) = -12$ which gives $2x - 2 = -12$.

Step3: Add 2 to both sides

Add 2 to each side of the equation: $2x - 2 + 2 = -12 + 2$ resulting in $2x = -10$.

Step4: Divide by 2

Divide both sides by 2: $\frac{2x}{2} = \frac{-10}{2}$ so $x = -5$.

Answer:

$x = -5$