Question

Solve 3x + 4 = 12(x + 2) - 5x.
Justify each step.

Answer 1

x = -5

Explanation:

Step 1: Write equation

3x + 4 = 12(x + 2) - 5x

Step 2: Solve for x

1. Distribute 12: 3x + 4 = 12x + 24 - 5x
2. Combine like terms: 3x + 4 = 7x + 24
3. Subtract 3x on both sides: 4 = 4x + 24
4. Subtract 24 on both sides: -20 = 4x
5. Divide both sides by 4: -5 = x
6. Rewrite: x = -5

Step 3: Check

Plug in x to verify it's a solution.

3(-5) + 4 = 12(-5 + 2) - 5(-5)

-15 + 4 = 12(-3) + 25

-11 = -36 + 25

-11 = -11