To simplify the expression \(3(2 + 8x) - 7x\), follow these steps:
-
Distribute the \(3\) into the parentheses: \[ 3 \cdot 2 + 3 \cdot 8x = 6 + 24x \]
-
Now, substitute back into the expression: \[ 6 + 24x - 7x \]
-
Combine like terms (\(24x - 7x\)): \[ 6 + 17x \]
Thus, the simplified expression is: \[ \boxed{6 + 17x} \]