In this sequence of steps to solve the equation \(2(x - 4) + 6x = 9x - 10\), the step that is specifically justified by combining like terms is:
C
- Step 3 → \(8x - 8 = 9x - 10\)
In Step 3, you combine the \(2x\) and \(6x\) from the left side to get \(8x\), and the constant terms are kept separate. Additionally, Step 1 already combined like terms to some extent, but it is in Step 3 that the expression is simplified to clearly show the results of combining the terms.
- Step 1 involves performing the distribution and combining \(2x\) and \(6x\).
- Step 2 presents the same expression rearranged but doesn't introduce any new like terms.
- Step 4 does not involve combining like terms; it simplifies by isolating variables.
Therefore, Step 3 is the best answer as it's where the combined like terms clearly show what the equation simplifies to.