To solve the equation \( x + 2(x + 1) = 17 \), follow these steps:
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Distribute the \( 2 \) in the term \( 2(x + 1) \): \[ 2(x + 1) = 2x + 2 \] So the equation becomes: \[ x + 2x + 2 = 17 \]
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Combine like terms: \[ (x + 2x) + 2 = 17 \] This simplifies to: \[ 3x + 2 = 17 \]
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Subtract \( 2 \) from both sides: \[ 3x = 17 - 2 \] This gives: \[ 3x = 15 \]
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Divide both sides by \( 3 \): \[ x = \frac{15}{3} = 5 \]
Thus, the solution to the equation is: \[ \boxed{5} \]