Final answer:
In the given proof, a and b represent values assigned to variables in the equation. To prove the equation, substitute the values for a and b into the equation and simplify both sides. The correct values for a and b are a = j and b = 12 × (2 × k).
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given proof, a and b are the values assigned to variables in the equation. The expression to be proved is 12 · [j · (2 · k) · 3] = 72jka. The possible values assigned to a and b are provided in the answer choices. To prove the equation, we substitute the values for a and b into the equation and simplify both sides to check if they are equal.
Based on the given options, the correct choice for a and b in the proof is a = j and b = 12 · (2 · k). By substituting these values into the equation and simplifying both sides, we can determine if they are equal.