Question

Is 16+4 and 2(2w+8) equivalent?

Answer 1

Below!

Explanation:

Let us consider that 16 + 4 and 2(2w+8) are equal. Then;

• ⇒ 16 + 4 = 2(2w + 8)

This equation can be solved in two ways. Listed below!

Method 1:

Let's simplify the left-hand-side of the equation.

• ⇒ 20 = 2(2w + 8)

Then, divide "2" both sides of the equation to open the parentheses.

• ⇒ 20/2 = 2(2w + 8)/2
• ⇒ 10 = (2w + 8)
• ⇒ 10 = 2w + 8

Subtract 8 to both sides of the equation to isolate the variable (w) and it's coefficient.

• ⇒ 10 - 8 = 2w
• ⇒ 2 = 2w

Finally, divide 2 to both sides of the equation to isolate the variable (w).

• ⇒ w = 1

Therefore, 16 + 4 and 2(2w + 8) can be equal if the value of "w" is 1.

Method 2:

Let's simplify the left-hand-side of the equation.

• ⇒ 20 = 2(2w + 8)

Then, simplify the distributive property to open the parentheses.

• ⇒ 20 = 2(2w + 8)
• ⇒ 20 = 4w + 16

Subtract 16 to both sides of the equation to isolate the variable and it's coefficient.

• ⇒ 20 - 16 = 4w + 16 - 16
• ⇒ 4 = 4w

Finally, divide 4 to both sides of the equation to isolate the variable (w).

• ⇒ 4/4 = 4w/4
• ⇒ w = 1

As said in method 1, 16 + 4 and 2(2w + 8) can be equal if the value of "w" is 1.