To solve the equation [tex]\(26x = 74\)[/tex], follow these steps:
1. Identify the isolation goal: You want to isolate [tex]\(x\)[/tex] on one side of the equation.
2. Analyze the equation: The given equation is [tex]\(26x = 74\)[/tex].
3. Choose the correct operation: To isolate [tex]\(x\)[/tex], you need to eliminate the coefficient 26 from [tex]\(26x\)[/tex]. The best way to do this is by dividing both sides of the equation by 26 since division is the inverse operation of multiplication.
[tex]\[
\frac{26x}{26} = \frac{74}{26}
\][/tex]
4. Simplify: Simplify both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
x = \frac{74}{26}
\][/tex]
5. Reduce the fraction: Simplify the fraction [tex]\(\frac{74}{26}\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
x = \frac{74 \div 2}{26 \div 2} = \frac{37}{13}
\][/tex]
Therefore, the best way to solve the equation [tex]\(26x = 74\)[/tex] is to divide both sides by 26. Thus, the correct answer is option B.
