Question

Translate

nine less than the total of a number and two
a
9-(x+2)

b
9x/2

c
(x+2)-9

Answer 1

The phrase "nine less than the total of a number and two" can be translated into a mathematical expression as follows:

Let \( x \) be the number. The total of the number and two is \( x + 2 \). Then, "nine less than" that total means we subtract 9 from it:

So, the expression is:

\[
(x + 2) - 9
\]

Now let's analyze the options:

a. \( 9 - (x + 2) \) is incorrect because it means "9 minus the total of a number and two," rather than "nine less than the total."

b. \( \frac{9x}{2} \) is also incorrect, as this does not represent the phrase given.

c. \( (x + 2) - 9 \) is correct, as it accurately reflects the phrase "nine less than the total of a number and two."

Thus, the correct choice is **c** \( (x + 2) - 9 \).