Question

Which value of x makes the following equation true?

3(x - 5) - 12 = 2(x - 6) + 2

Answer 1

Let's solve the equation!

3(x - 5) - 12 = 2(x - 6) + 2

Use the distributive property, which states: a(b-c) = ab - ac

3x - 3(5) - 12 = 2x - 2(6) + 2

3x - 15 - 12 = 2x - 12 + 2

3x - 27 = 2x - 10

Subtract 2x on both sides

x - 27 = -10

Add 27 on both sides.

x = 17

When x = 17, the equation 3(x - 5) - 12 = 2(x - 6) + 2 is true.

Answer 2

3(x - 5) - 12 = 2(x - 6) + 2
3x - 15 - 12 = 2x - 12 + 2
3x - 27 = 2x - 10
-2x         -2x

x - 27 = -10
    +27   +27

x = 17

Answer: the value of x is 17