To analyze the equation \( 40%(b - 21) = 40%b - 8.4 \), let's start by interpreting the components of the equation.
- The left side, \( 40%(b - 21) \), indicates that we are taking 40% of an amount that is reduced by 21 (which can represent a decrease).
- The right side, \( 40%b - 8.4 \), indicates that we are taking 40% of \( b \) and subtracting 8.4 from it.
Now, let's evaluate the options:
A. An amount of chili was eaten from 40% of 8.4 less than b bowls.
- This option does not fit because it misuses the values and relationships present in the equation.
B. Last month's electricity bill was 8.4 kW-h less than 40% of this month's bill.
- This is a good candidate because it describes a situation where the current bill \( b \) minus a reduction of 21 corresponds to the reduced amount (8.4) in terms of electricity billing.
C. A number of cups of coffee were thrown away by 40% of b senators during 8.4 speeches.
- This doesn't match because it confuses the relationships - the cups of coffee are not linked to the percentages correctly.
D. A number of songs are available for download from 40% of b artists.
- While this mentions percentages, it does not capture a relationship in the equation since there is no reduction or subtraction involved.
After analyzing, B (Last month's electricity bill was 8.4 kW-h less than 40% of this month's bill.) is the best match for the situation described by the equation \( 40%(b - 21) = 40% b - 8.4 \).
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