"Use the math problem solver with steps to simplify the expression 3(x + 2) - 4."

To simplify the expression \( 3(x + 2) - 4 \) using a step-by-step approach, follow the steps below:

### Step 1: Distribute the 3 across the terms inside the parentheses
Apply the distributive property, which states that \( a(b + c) = ab + ac \). Here, multiply each term inside the parentheses by 3:
\[
3(x + 2) = 3 \cdot x + 3 \cdot 2 = 3x + 6
\]
So, the expression now becomes:
\[
3x + 6 - 4
\]

### Step 2: Combine like terms
Now, simplify the expression by combining the constant terms:
\[
6 - 4 = 2
\]
Thus, the expression simplifies to:
\[
3x + 2
\]

### Final Simplified Expression
The simplified expression is:
\[
3x + 2
\]

Would you like more details or have any questions about this method?

Here are 8 related questions to explore:

1. How do you apply the distributive property in algebraic expressions?
2. What are like terms, and how do you combine them?
3. How do you simplify expressions with multiple parentheses?
4. What is the difference between simplifying and solving an algebraic expression?
5. Can you factorize the expression \( 3x + 2 \)?
6. How do you evaluate the expression \( 3(x + 2) - 4 \) for specific values of \( x \)?
7. What is the next step if you were to solve the equation \( 3(x + 2) - 4 = 0 \)?
8. How do you expand and simplify expressions involving subtraction, like \( 3(x + 2) - 4(x - 1) \)?

**Tip:** Always perform operations inside parentheses first before distributing or combining like terms when simplifying algebraic expressions.

Learn how to simplify the expression 3(x + 2) - 4 step-by-step. This problem covers key algebraic concepts including the distributive property and combining like terms. Suitable for high school students.

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