Question

Which of these best explains the next step to simplify this expression? 3y−45=35y−4

A. Add 5 to –4.
B. Multiply 5 by –4.
C. Make the –4 exponent in the denominator positive.
D. Keep the exponent in the denominator –4.

Answer 1

To simplify the expression 3y−45=35y−4, subtract 3y from both sides, then add 4 to both sides, and finally divide both sides by 32.

Step-by-step explanation:

To simplify the expression 3y−45=35y−4, the best next step is not directly listed in the choices provided. However, based on the context, the likely next step in algebraic simplification is to isolate the variable y on one side of the equation. This can be accomplished by performing operations that will eliminate terms and balance the equation. To achieve this, you would ordinarily add or subtract terms from both sides of an equation or multiply or divide both sides of an equation by the same number (non-zero). In this specific case, let's subtract 3y from both sides to begin isolating y:

3y − 45 − 3y = 35y − 3y − 4

-45 = 32y − 4

Next, you would add 4 to both sides of the equation:

-45 + 4 = 32y − 4 + 4

-41 = 32y

Finally, to solve for y, you would divide both sides by 32:

-41/32 = y

Now, the variable y is isolated, and the equation is simplified.