Question

A math class is having a discussion on how to determine if the expressions 4 x minus x + 5 and 8 minus 3 x minus 3 are equivalent. The class has suggested four different methods.

PLEASE HURRY:Which describes the correct method?
Both expressions should be evaluated by substituting one value for x. If the final values of the expressions are both positive after the substitution, then the two expressions must be equivalent.
Both expressions should be evaluated by substituting with one value for x. If the final values of the expressions are the same, then the two expressions must be equivalent.
Both expressions should be evaluated by substituting any two values for x. If for each substituted value, the final values of the expressions are positive, then the two expressions must be equivalent.
Both expressions should be evaluated by substituting any two values for x. If for each substituted value, the final values of the expressions are the same, then the two expressions must be equivalent.

Answer 1

Both expressions should be evaluated by substituting with one value for x. If the final values of the expressions are the same, then the two expressions must be equivalent.

Explanation:

x = 1

4x - (x + 5) = 4 - 6 = -2

8 - 3x - 3 = 8 - 3 - 3 = 2