Final Answer:
The correct operation needed to solve the equation x - 3 = 11 is addition. So Option B is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the first operation required to solve the equation x - 3 = 11, we must isolate the variable x by performing the inverse operation to the one applied to it. In this case, x is being subtracted by 3. The inverse operation of subtraction is addition. Therefore, the initial step involves adding 3 to both sides of the equation to cancel out the subtraction of 3 from x.
x - 3 + 3 = 11 + 3
This simplifies to:
x = 14
By adding 3 to both sides, we isolate the variable x on one side of the equation, and the solution, x = 14, is obtained. It's essential to maintain the balance of the equation by performing the same operation on both sides to ensure accuracy and preserve the equality. In this context, addition serves as the foundational operation, paving the way for further steps in solving the equation.
In conclusion, the correct initial operation is addition, and by adding 3 to both sides, we successfully solve the equation x - 3 = 11, leading to the solution x = 14. This process aligns with fundamental algebraic principles, emphasizing the importance of performing inverse operations to isolate variables and find solutions accurately.