What is the first step in solving for x in the equation 5.6 ( x + 1.42 ) = 7.8?

Question

Multiply both sides by 5.6

Subtract 1.42 from both sides

Only the left-hand side was divided by 5.6

Subtract 1.42 from both sides

Divide both sides by 5.6

Answer 1

The first step in solving for \( x \) in the equation \( 5.6(x + 1.42) = 7.8 \) is to divide both sides by \( 5.6 \).

So, the correct first step is:

Divide both sides by 5.6.

This will help isolate the term containing \( x \). After that, you can proceed to solve for \( x \).