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ASVAB · General

Simplify: 4(x + 3) − 2x

Correct answer

2x + 12

  1. A 2x + 12
  2. B 2x + 3
  3. C 6x + 12
  4. D 2x + 7

Why this is the answer

Use the DISTRIBUTIVE property: 4(x + 3) = 4x + 12. Then subtract 2x: 4x + 12 − 2x = 2x + 12. ASVAB Mathematics Knowledge tests simplifying expressions. Strategy: (1) distribute the 4 across the parentheses: 4·x + 4·3 = 4x + 12; (2) combine like terms: 4x − 2x = 2x, and keep the +12. Result: 2x + 12. COMMON ERROR: forgetting to distribute the 4 to BOTH terms in the parentheses, or trying to combine 12 with the x-terms (you can't combine unlike terms).
Source: ASVAB Mathematics Knowledge — Simplifying Expressions

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