- ANothing is wrong; the value is −58.
- BThe stray 4 should have been added; the value is −50.
- CThe −6 must multiply BOTH terms inside the bracket; the value is −30.
- DThe bracket should have been read as 9 + 4; the value is −78.
Step-by-Step Solution
Distributing means the −6 reaches every term: (−6) × (9 − 4) = (−6)(9) − (−6)(4) = −54 + 24 = −30. Checking straight through agrees, since 9 − 4 = 5 and (−6) × 5 = −30. Leaving the 4 undistributed gives −54 − 4 = −58, which is the student's answer and the mistake being tested.
Answer: C) The −6 must multiply BOTH terms inside the bracket; the value is −30.