Question

complete the process of solving the equation. fill in the missing term and select the missing description. simplify any fractions. -3(b + 20) = 6; b + 20 = -2; b = ; subtract 20 from both sides

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the first operation

To get from \(-3(b + 20) = 6\) to \(b + 20 = -2\), we divide both sides by \(-3\). So the missing description for that step is "Divide both sides by -3".

Step2: Solve for \(b\)

Now, to solve \(b + 20 = -2\) for \(b\), we subtract 20 from both sides. So \(b = -2 - 20\).

Step3: Calculate the value of \(b\)

\(b = -2 - 20 = -22\).

Answer:

The missing description for the first step is "Divide both sides by -3" and the value of \(b\) is \(-22\).