Question

Distribute: -3(4x – 5)
1) -12x + 15
2) -12x - 15
3) -12x + 8
4) -12x - 5

Answer 1

The distribution of -3 across (4x - 5) gives us -12x + 15, which means the correct answer is option 1) -12x + 15.

Step-by-step explanation:

To distribute a number across a parenthesis in algebraic terms involves multiplying the number outside the parenthesis by each term inside. In your case, you are distributing -3 across (4x – 5).

Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Multiply -3 by 4x, which gives us -12x.
2. Multiply -3 by -5, which gives us +15.

So, the correct distribution of -3(4x – 5) is -12x + 15. Hence, the answer to your question is option 1) -12x + 15.

Remember, when two negative numbers multiply, the answer has a positive sign (e.g., (-3) × (-5) = +15), and when numbers with opposite signs multiply, the answer has a negative sign (e.g., -3 × 4x = -12x).