SOLUTION: 9) A student claims that a – b – c is the same as a – ( b – c ). How do you respond?

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Question 176323: 9) A student claims that a – b – c is the same as a – ( b – c ). How do you respond?

Found 2 solutions by jim_thompson5910, solver91311:
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let's assume that


Start with the given equation.


Distribute the negative. Remember, this negative applies to EVERYTHING in the parenthesis. So change the sign of "b" to get "-b" and change the sign of "-c" to get "c"

Subtract "a" from both sides.


Subtract "b" from both sides.


Because the equation above is NOT true for all values of "c" (in fact, it's only true if ), this means that is NOT true.

Answer by solver91311(24713)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
I would respond WRONG!!! (But I would say it nicely. No point in hurting anyone's feelings.)




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