Question

-3(-x + 2) - x + 4 = -12
answer attempt 1 out of 2
x =

Explanation:

Step1: Distribute the -3

We use the distributive property \(a(b + c)=ab+ac\). Here, \(a = - 3\), \(b=-x\) and \(c = 2\), so \(-3(-x + 2)=(-3)\times(-x)+(-3)\times2=3x-6\). The equation becomes \(3x-6 - x+4=-12\).

Step2: Combine like terms

Combine the \(x\) - terms: \(3x-x = 2x\). Combine the constant terms: \(-6 + 4=-2\). So the equation is \(2x-2=-12\).

Step3: Solve for x

Add 2 to both sides of the equation: \(2x-2 + 2=-12 + 2\), which simplifies to \(2x=-10\). Then divide both sides by 2: \(\frac{2x}{2}=\frac{-10}{2}\), so \(x=-5\).

Answer:

\(-5\)