Question

find the missing number so that the equation has infinitely many solutions. -5x + 5 = -2(4x + 6) + 3x + \square

Explanation:

Step1: Expand the right-hand side

$-2(4x + 6) + 3x = -8x - 12 + 3x$

Step2: Combine like terms on RHS

$-8x + 3x - 12 = -5x - 12$

Step3: Set up for infinite solutions

For $-5x + 5 = -5x - 12 + \square$, the $x$-terms are equal. We need $5 = -12 + \square$, so $\square = 5 + 12$

Step4: Calculate the missing number

$5 + 12 = 17$

Answer:

17