Question

How do you solve `2( x + 4) - x = 15`?

Answer 1

See the entire solution process below:

Explanation:

First, expand the terms within parenthesis by multiplying each term within the parenthesis by `color(red)(2)`:

`color(red)(2)(x + 4) - x = 15`

`(color(red)(2) xx x) + (color(red)(2) xx 4) - x = 15`

`2x + 8 - x = 15`

Next, group and combine like terms on the left side of the equation:

`2x - x + 8 = 15`

`2x - 1x + 8 = 15`

`(2 - 1)x + 8 = 15`

`1x + 8 = 15`

`x + 8 = 15`

Now, subtract `color(red)(8)` from each side of the equation to solve for `x` while keeping the equation balanced:

`x + 8 - color(red)(8) = 15 - color(red)(8)`

`x + 0 = 7`

`x = 7`