Josh is trying to factor the expression -20a - 8 + 12b. he writes -4(5a + 2 + 3b) a. what error did josh likely make? b. factor the expression correctly. c. write an equivalent factored expression.

A - He forgot to change the variable b to a negative

B - -4 (5a + 2 -3b)

C - -2 (10a + 4 - 6b)

Step-by-step explanation:

A; The reason that the variable b must be negative is because Josh is dividing by a negative factor, negative four. Therefore, if the number is positive, it must be turned negative, and if the number is negative, it must be turned positive.

B - To factor the expression correctly, take the expression Josh had originally created [-4 (5a + 2 + 3b)] and change the incorrect symbol, plus (+) for 3b to minus (-) to indicate a negative number.

C - This factored expression is equivalent as it shares a factor, -2, and a simplified set of variables within the parenthesis. Therefore, to get said variables, divide each number by the factor presented.

-20/-2 = 10

-8/-2 = 4

12/-2 = -6

Hope this helps!