Question

What is a?

45 = 4(a + 3) – 3

A: a = –9
B: a = 12
C: a = 9
D: a = –12

Answer 1

45 = 4(a+3)-3
45+3 = 4(a+3)
48 = 4(a+3)
48/4 = a+3
12 = a+3
a = 9

Answer 2

First, you need to distribute 4 throughout the parenthesis.

You get 45 = 4a +12 - 3

Put 12 and 3 together.

45 = 4a + 9

Subtract 9 from both sides.

36 = 4a

Divide each side by 4 and you have your answer.