Sam was told that twice the difference of a number and four is twelve. If x stands for the unknown number which equation could Sam solve to find the number?

Rationale

(2)(x) - (2)(4) = (2)(12)

This equation accurately represents the statement that twice the difference of a number (x) and four is twelve. By breaking it down, we can see that the difference of x and four is first calculated, then multiplied by two to yield the result of twelve.

A (2x - 4 = 12) YOUR ANSWER

This equation incorrectly suggests that the number x is being multiplied by two and then reduced by four, rather than first finding the difference between x and four. Thus, it does not represent the original problem statement correctly.

B (2(x - 9) = 12) YOUR ANSWER

This choice modifies the expression incorrectly by subtracting nine instead of four from x. The equation does not correspond to the problem's requirement to find twice the difference between the unknown number and four, leading to an incorrect representation.

C (x - 4 = (2)(12)) YOUR ANSWER

This equation incorrectly states that the difference between x and four is equal to twenty-four (the result of (2)(12)). It fails to account for the multiplication by two that should apply to the difference of (x - 4) and does not align with the original problem statement.

D ((2)(x) - (2)(4) = (2)(12)) CORRECT

This equation correctly reflects the problem, where (2)(x) represents twice the unknown number and (2)(4) represents twice the difference of the number and four. Therefore, it equates to twelve when simplified, making it the right choice.

Conclusion

Sam needs to solve the equation (2)(x) - (2)(4) = (2)(12) to find the unknown number. This formulation accurately captures the mathematical relationship described in the problem, ensuring that the operations and values align with the original statement about the number and four. All other choices fail to represent the problem accurately, either by altering the numbers or misapplying the operations.

Sam was told that twice the difference of a number and four is twelve. If x stands for the unknown number which equation could Sam solve to find the number?

(2)(x) - (2)(4) = (2)(12)

Related Questions

Related Quizzes

How familiar were you with this question?

Report an Issue

Rate this Practice Test