Question

A student simplifies 5(x+3) - 3x by distributing and combining all the terms.

1. 5(x+3)-3x This is what is given
2. 5x +15-3x After applying the Distributive Property
3. 2x+15
Adding Like Terms
4. 17x
Combining non like terms.
Which step contains the error?
O Step 4
O Step 1
O Step 2
Step 3

Answer 1

Step 4

Explanation:

You cannot combine non-like terms like 2x and 15

They have to be left as is

Steps would be:

2. 5x +15-3x → Distributive property
3. 2x+15 → Combining like terms

And that's it. You cannot go any further