Question

How can you use the DISTRIBUTIVE PROPERTY solve the equation: 3(x-4) = 24 ? *

Answer 1

3(x - 4) = 24 This is the normal equation.

3x - 12 = 24 Next, use the distributive property and multiply everything in the parentheses by the number on the right of the parentheses, which in this case is 3. 3 times x is 3x, and remember to use any symbols to the left of the numbers and use as if it was a negative. 3 times -4 -12. Get rid of the parentheses and replace with the new numbers, which are 3x and -12.

3x = 36 I think you are solving for X so that's what i'm doing.

x = 12

Answer 2

By using the Distributive Property, you would multiply 3 into the parenthesis (3 · x and 3 · -4)

3(x - 4) = 24

3x - 12 = 24

Then, you would solve like any normal one-step equation.

3x - 12 = 24

+12 +12

__________

3x 36

__ = __

3 3

x = 12, which is your final solution.

If you need any further explanations, please ask me :)