Tony is having this equation for n. 8 + 3n = 20. His first step is to subtract 8 from both sides of the equation. Why. a. He needs to reverse the order of operations? B. he needs to follow the order of operations. C. 8 is the first term in the equation D.8 is attached to 3n by subtraction.

Answer 1

Tony is subtracting 8 from both sides of the equation \( 8 + 3n = 20 \) in order to isolate the term with \( n \) on one side of the equation. The correct reasoning among the options provided is:

D. 8 is attached to 3n by subtraction.

By subtracting 8 from both sides, he effectively removes the 8 from the left side, making it easier to solve for \( n \). This step is a part of manipulating the equation to isolate the variable, which is a common technique in solving equations.