Final answer:
To solve the inequality 2x - 8 < 7, you add 8 to both sides and then divide by 2. The solution is x < 7.5, which corresponds to answer choice b. This process includes simplifying the algebra and checking that the answer is reasonable. Option b is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve 2x - 8 < 7, let's isolate x by first adding 8 to both sides of the inequality:
2x - 8 + 8 < 7 + 8
2x < 15
Next, divide both sides by 2 to solve for x:
2x / 2 < 15 / 2
x < 7.5
The solution to the inequality is x < 7.5, meaning that x can be any number that is less than 7.5. Therefore, the correct answer is b. x < 7.5.
When solving inequalities, it's important to eliminate terms wherever possible to simplify the algebra and check the answer to ensure it is reasonable.