Question

(07.03 LC)

The steps below show the incomplete solution to find the value of p for the equation 4p − 2p + 4 = −1 + 21:

Step 1: 4p − 2p + 4 = −1 + 21
Step 2: 4p − 2p + 4 = 20
Step 3: 2p + 4 = 20

Which of these is most likely the next step?
2p = 5
2p = 8
2p = 16
2p = 24

Answer 1

Step 1: 4p − 2p + 4 = −1 + 21
First they combined like terms on one side.

Step 2: 4p − 2p + 4 = 20
Then they combined like terms on the other side.

Step 3: 2p + 4 = 20
Now you have to subtract 4 from both sides.

Step 4: 2p = 16

So the answer is C. 2p = 16

Answer 2

It's 2p = 16. You subtract 4 from both sides. 
2p+4=20
     -4=-4
   2p = 16