2012-05-09 09:00:28

If a =  4x - 13 and b = 4(x + 13), what is the value of b - a?

(A) -65
(B) -13
(C) 0
(D) 52
(E) 65

The correct answer is E

Explanation: Start by simplifying the b equation by distributing the 4 to get b = 4x + 52. Now, subtract 4x - 13 from 4x + 52 to find b - a: (4x + 52) - (4x - 13), which simplifies to 4x + 52 - 4x + 13. This simplifies to 65, or choice E.