Question

-2(X - 5) - 3(4x +4)

I know the evaluation is -14x - 2 but I need to explain why this is correct.

Answer 1

Explanation:

In the expression:

`- 2(x - 5) - 3(4x + 4)`

Apply the rule of BODMAS which states that bracket comes first, and we know that when a number is outside a bracket, it means the number will multiply the number(s) in the bracket. Infact, bracket means multiplication. So, -2 will multiply the values in the bracket beside it, and -3 will multiply the values in the bracket beside it. When that is done, combine everything together (always observe the mathematical signs)

`- 2x + 10 - 12x - 12`

Now, collect like terms.

`- 2x - 12x + 10 - 12`

Therefore, final answer is:

`- 14x - 2`

I hope this helps