Question

Which value of x makes the following equation true?

2(x + 8) = x + 20
A.
20
B.
-4
C.
4
D.
12

Answer 1

Distribute the 2 to all terms within the parenthesis

2(x + 8) = 2x + 16

2x + 16 = x + 20

Isolate the x. Subtract x from both sides and 16

2x (-x) + 16 (-16) = x (-x) + 20 (-16)

2x - x = 20 - 16

Simplify. Combine like terms.

x = 4

C. 4 is your answer

Explanation:

Answer 2

Distribute the 2 to all terms within the parenthesis

2(x + 8) = 2x + 16

2x + 16 = x + 20

Isolate the x. Subtract x from both sides and 16

2x (-x) + 16 (-16) = x (-x) + 20 (-16)

2x - x = 20 - 16

Simplify. Combine like terms.

x = 4

C. 4 is your answer

hope this helps