8(x - 3) = 16
Distributive property says that,
a(b - c) = (a * b) - (a * c)
Using distributive property, you should multiply both the numbers or variables in the bracket.
Which is,
(8 * x) - (8 * 3) = 16
8x - 24 = 16
8x = 16 + 24
8x = 40
Taking 8 from 8x to the LHS from the RHS.
x = 40/8
hence, x = 5
Hope this helps. If you have any questions plz let me know.