Question

Which expression represents the phrase, "fifteen less than three times a number?"

A) 15 - 3n
B) 3n - 15
C) 3 + n - 15
D) 3n = - 15

Answer 1

The expression that represents the phrase "fifteen less than three times a number" is 3n - 15.

Option (B) is true.

Explanation:

"Three times a number" can be represented as 3n.

"Fifteen less than" means we subtract 15 from 3n.

Therefore, the expression that represents the phrase "fifteen less than three times a number" is 3n - 15.

Here's a breakdown of why the other options are incorrect:

A) 15 - 3n

This expression subtracts 3n from 15.

This is not the same as subtracting 15 from 3n.

C) 3 + n - 15

This expression adds n to 3 and then subtracts 15.

This is not the same as subtracting 15 from 3n.

D) 3n = -15

This expression sets 3n equal to -15.

This is a different type of equation and does not represent the phrase "fifteen less than three times a number."

Thus, option (B) is true.