The equation is given as;
. 3(x-6) + 8 = 5x - 2
The distributive property states that you apply the distributive law of multiplication and division
In this case distribute the left hand side as;
3x - 18 + 8 = 5x - 2
Collect like terms
-18 + 8+2 =5x -3x
-18 + 10 = 2x
-8 = 2x
-8/2 = x
-4 = x