To solve the equation [tex]\(\frac{a}{2} - 5 = -2\)[/tex], we need to isolate the variable [tex]\(a\)[/tex]. Let's go through the steps in detail:
1. Understanding the Goal: Our goal is to get [tex]\(a\)[/tex] by itself on one side of the equation.
2. Identify Operations: Currently, [tex]\(a\)[/tex] is divided by 2 and then 5 is subtracted. We need to reverse these operations.
3. Reverse Subtraction: The first operation to reverse is the subtraction of 5. To do this, we will add 5 to both sides of the equation. This is because adding and subtracting are inverse operations and they cancel each other out.
[tex]\[ \frac{a}{2} - 5 + 5 = -2 + 5 \][/tex]
4. Simplifying: Adding 5 to both sides results in:
[tex]\[ \frac{a}{2} = 3 \][/tex]
Therefore, the first step in solving the equation [tex]\(\frac{a}{2} - 5 = -2\)[/tex] is to add 5 to both sides.
Hence, the correct answer is:
B. add 5 to both sides.
