Question

Simplify the following expression:
-7x +5(1 - 8x)

Answer 1

To simplify the expression -7x +5(1 - 8x), distribute the 5, combine like terms, and the simplified result is -47x + 5. Checking the answer involves confirming proper combination of like terms.

Step-by-step explanation:

To simplify the algebraic expression given, follow these steps:

1. Distribute the 5 through the parentheses: 5(1 - 8x) becomes 5 - 40x.
2. Combine like terms with the initial -7x: -7x + 5 - 40x.
3. Add or subtract the numerical coefficients of the terms with x: -7x - 40x becomes -47x.
4. The constant term remains unchanged, so the final simplified expression is: -47x + 5.

Check the answer to ensure that the simplified form is reasonable. The algebra involved is basic arithmetic, so gauge the validity of the answer by confirming that like terms were properly combined.