Question

Emeril solved this equation using the steps shown below: 4b + 2b – 3 = –21 1. Combine like terms: 6b − 3 = −21 2. Subtraction property of equality: 6b = −24 3. Subtraction property of equality: b = −4 Analyze the steps Emeril used to solve for the variable to determine if he made an error. In which step did Emeril make an error? Step 1: He didn’t combine like terms correctly. Step 2: He should have added 3 to, rather than subtracting 3 from, both sides. Step 3: He should have gotten a positive answer when dividing -24 by 6. There is no error.

Answer 1

B

Explanation:

Answer 2

Emeril made a mistake at step 2

Step 2: He should have added 3 to, rather than subtracting 3 from, both sides.

Explanation:

4b + 2b - 3 = -21

6b - 3 = -21

6b = -18

b = -3