Question

solve the equation 2(a - 5) - 5 = 3 .
A. a = 9
B. a = 12
C. a = - 9
D. a = - 12

Answer 1

2(a-5) - 5 = 3
2a - 10 -5 = 3
2a - 15 = 3
2a = 18
a = 9

Answer is A.

Answer 2

Distribute the 2 into the parenthesis.

2a - 10 - 5 = 3

Simplify

2a - 15 = 3

Add 15 to both sides

2a - 15 + 15 = 3 + 15
2a = 18

Divide by 2 on both sides

2a/2 = 18/2
a = 9

So, A is your answer.