Question

You could solve 3(x - 7) = 15 by applying the Distributive Property as the first

step. However, there is another way to begin. What is it? *

Answer 1

3(x-7)=15

3x-21=15

3x=15+21

3x=36

3x÷3=36÷3

x=12

Answer 2

You can divide both sides of the equation by
`3`.

Explanation:

When you divide both sides of the given equation by
`3`, well end up with the equation,
`x -7 = 5`.

Solution of dividing both sides of the equation by
`3`:

`3(x -7) = 15 \\ (3(x -7))/(3) = (15)/(3) \\ x -7 = 5`

You can then add
`7` to the both sides of the equation, you'll then find your solution of the equation which is
`x = 12`.

Solution of adding both sides of the equation by
`7`:

`x -7 = 5 \\ x -7 +7 = 5 +7 \\ x = 12`