Choose the best response to explain why 3 (x+12) = 3 (x+5)

This equation is wrong.

3 (x + 12) does not, and never will, equal 3 (x + 5)

We can solve the equation to verify.

3 (x + 12) = 3 (x + 5)

Distributive property.

3x + 36 = 3x + 15

Subtract 15 from both sides.

3x + 21 = 3x

Cancel like terms.

21 = 0 * this is incorrect.