Question

1. which operation would typically be used first when solving the equation $3x + 5 = 20$ for $x$?

a. addition
b. multiplication
c. subtraction
d. division

Explanation:

Step1: Isolate the variable term

To solve $3x + 5 = 20$, first eliminate the constant term $+5$ on the left side. We use its inverse operation, subtraction.
$3x + 5 - 5 = 20 - 5$

Step2: Simplify the equation

After subtraction, we get the simplified equation:
$3x = 15$
(Note: Division would be used next, but the question asks for the first operation.)

Answer:

c. Subtraction