how do i do this equation ? -158=-2x+ 2(7x -7) . thank you

-158=-2x+ 2(7x -7)

-158 = -2x + 14x -14

-144 = 12x

-12 = x

-158 = -2x + 14x - 14

-158 = 12x - 14
-158 +14 = 12x - 14 +14
-144 = 12x
x = -12

thank you

You're welcome.

To solve the equation -158 = -2x + 2(7x - 7), follow these steps:

Step 1: Start by simplifying the equation.
- Distribute the 2 to both terms within the parentheses: -158 = -2x + 14x - 14
- Combine like terms: -158 = 12x - 14

Step 2: Isolate the variable (x) on one side of the equation.
- To do this, add 14 to both sides of the equation: -144 = 12x

Step 3: Solve for x.
- Divide both sides of the equation by 12: x = -144/12
- Simplify the right side of the equation: x = -12

So, the solution to the equation -158 = -2x + 2(7x - 7) is x = -12.