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:

To solve the given expression;

2(w − 3) = 5

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

Is the most appropriate procedure to follow:

2(w − 3) = 5;

Distributive property will clear the parentheses;

2w - 6 = 5

Then add 6 to both sides;

2w -6 + 6 = 5 + 6

2w = 11

Then divide both sides by 2;

w =
`(11)/(2)`