Question

Which choice gives a valid first step to solve 2(w − 3) = 5? Exclude any choice where the explanation for the step is false.

A. Divide each side by 2. You can then subtract 6 from each side to solve for x.
B. Divide each side by 2. You end up with fewer terms.
C. Use the Distributive Property. You then only have to subtract 6 from each side to solve for x.
D. Use the Distributive Property. You clear the parentheses and then solve the two-step equation.

Answer 1

D. Use the Distributive Property. You clear the parentheses and then solve the two-step equation.

Explanation:

Given problem;

2(w − 3) = 5

To solve this problem:

Use the distributive property to clear the parentheses;

2w - 6 = 5

Then, collect like terms, add 6 to both sides;

2w = 5 + 6

2w = 11

Now divide both terms by 2

w =
`(11)/(2)`