Write the steps in solving −5x+3(x+2) =20.

Justify each step with an appropriate property.

1 answer

Step 1: Distribute the 3 to both terms inside the parentheses:
-5x + 3x + 6 = 20
Property: Distributive Property

Step 2: Combine like terms:
-2x + 6 = 20
Property: Combining Like Terms

Step 3: Subtract 6 from both sides to isolate the variable term:
-2x = 14
Property: Subtraction Property of Equality

Step 4: Divide by -2 to solve for x:
x = -7
Property: Division Property of Equality

Therefore, the solution to the equation -5x + 3(x + 2) = 20 is x = -7.