Yes, the steps for solving the equation are correct. Here is a breakdown of each step and how to get the answer:
Step 1: Distributive Property
Apply the Distributive Property to the equation. This means multiplying each term inside the parentheses by the number outside the parentheses. In this case, distribute 3 to 4x and 5.
2x - 5 = 3(4x + 5)
2x - 5 = 12x + 15
Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Combine the like terms on each side of the equation.
On the left side, the only term is 2x.
On the right side, combine 12x and 15.
2x = 12x + 15
Step 3: Division of Equality
To isolate the variable x, we need to get rid of the 12x on the right side. We can do this by subtracting 12x from both sides of the equation.
Subtraction preserves equality, so both sides of the equation remain equal.
2x - 12x = 12x + 15 - 12x
-10x = 15
Step 4: Addition of Equality
To solve for x, we need to isolate x on one side of the equation. In this case, we can do this by adding 10x to both sides of the equation.
Addition preserves equality, so both sides of the equation remain equal.
-10x + 10x = 15 + 10x
0 = 15 + 10x
Simplify the right side of the equation.
0 = 10x + 15
Finally, subtract 15 from both sides to isolate x.
0 - 15 = 10x + 15 - 15
-15 = 10x
Step 5: Division Property of Equality
To solve for x, divide both sides of the equation by 10.
(-15)/10 = (10x)/10
-1.5 = x
So, the solution to the equation is x = -1.5 or x = -2 (rounded to the nearest whole number).