Maricella solves for x in the equation 4 x minus 2 (3 x minus 4) + 4 = negative x + 3 (x + 1) + 1. She begins by adding –4 + 4 on the left side of the equation and 1 + 1 on the right side of the equation. Which best explains why Maricella’s strategy is incorrect?

It is wrong because she should simplify both sides of the equation,distribute, combine like terms,subtract and divide to get the final answer.

4x−2(3x−4)+4=−x+3(x+1)+1

Step 1: Simplify both sides of the equation.

4x−2(3x−4)+4=−x+3(x+1)+1

4x+(−2)(3x)+(−2)(−4)+4=−x+(3)(x)+(3)(1)+1(Distribute)

4x+−6x+8+4=−x+3x+3+1

(4x+−6x)+(8+4)=(−x+3x)+(3+1)(Combine Like Terms)

−2x+12=2x+4

−2x+12=2x+4

Step 2: Subtract 2x from both sides.

−2x+12−2x=2x+4−2x

−4x+12=4

Step 3: Subtract 12 from both sides.

−4x+12−12=4−12

−4x=−8

Step 4: Divide both sides by -4.

−4x−4=−8−4

x=2

x=2