What value of satisfies the given equation?
For linear equations with parentheses, first use the distributive property to remove parentheses, then combine like terms so the equation is in a simple form like . From there, use inverse operations in two clear steps—undo addition or subtraction first, then undo multiplication or division—to isolate . Work neatly and check the arithmetic of your constants (like here), since small sign or addition mistakes are the most common source of wrong answers.
Hints
Start with the parentheses
Focus on the expression : how can you remove the parentheses using the distributive property?
Combine like terms on the left
After distributing, you will have an expression with and two constant numbers. Combine the constant numbers into a single number.
Use inverse operations
Once the equation is in the form , think about what you need to add or subtract, and then what you need to multiply or divide, to get alone.
Desmos Guide
Enter the two sides of the equation as functions
In Desmos, type y = 4(x - 3) + 2 on one line and y = 26 on another line so you see both graphs on the same coordinate plane.
Find the intersection point
Look for the point where the two lines intersect and tap/click it; the x-coordinate of this intersection is the value of that makes equal to 26.
Step-by-step Explanation
Distribute the 4 over the parentheses
Start by applying the distributive property to .
So the equation becomes .
Combine like terms
Combine the constant terms and on the left side.
Now the equation is:
Isolate x and solve
Use inverse operations to get by itself.
First, undo the by adding 10 to both sides:
Next, divide both sides by 4:
So the value of that satisfies the equation is , which is choice D.