Question

How do I simplify this expression

(-3)(4x - 12)​

Answer 1

-12(x-3)

Explanation:

If you are only trying to simplify, you can factor out a 4 from (4x - 12).

4(x-3)

now multiply the 4 and -3

-12(x-3)

Answer 2

Explanation:

Remark

This is an example of the distributive property. -3 multiplies both the 4x and the -12. The minus sign between them is NOT destroyed.

-3 * 4x = -12x

-3 * -12 = 36

Answer: - 12x + 36