Question

translate this phrase into an algebraic expression.
three less than the product of 17 and a number
use the variable n to represent the unknown number.

Explanation:

Step1: Define product of 17 and n

The product of 17 and the unknown number $n$ is calculated as multiplication.
$17 \times n = 17n$

Step2: Subtract 3 from the product

"Three less than" the product means subtract 3 from the result of Step1.
$17n - 3$

Answer:

$17n - 3$