Question

How do you solve `-2x + 2( 2x + 2) = 16`?

Answer 1

`x =6`

Explanation:

So, first using the distributive property, you distribute the `2` to `(2x+4)`. You get `4x+4`. Next, you add the `-2x` and the `4x` to get `2x`. After you subtract the `4` from the `16` (You have to subtract, not add `4` because you are moving it across the equal sign. This means you have to use the opposite operation to cancel the `4`. Thus, you subtract `4` to both ends). Your final equation should be `2x=12`. Lastly, you divide `2` to both sides, getting `x=6`.