To solve the equation \( 2(x + 9) = 16 \), follow these steps:
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Distribute the 2: \[ 2x + 18 = 16 \]
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Subtract 18 from both sides: \[ 2x = 16 - 18 \] \[ 2x = -2 \]
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Divide both sides by 2: \[ x = \frac{-2}{2} \] \[ x = -1 \]
Thus, the solution for \( x \) is \( \boxed{-1} \).