Use the distributive property to simplify \( 2(3 x+4 \). \( 6 x+8 y \) b. \( 5 x+8 y \) c. \( 3 x+4 y \) d. \( 6 x+4 y \)

To simplify \( 2(3x + 4) \) using the distributive property, you multiply each term inside the parentheses by \( 2 \). This gives you \( 2 \times 3x = 6x \) and \( 2 \times 4 = 8 \). So, the expression simplifies to \( 6x + 8 \). Now, in this case, you can see that the simplified expression \( 6x + 8 \) perfectly matches option **a** \( 6x + 8y \) (however, it's actually \( 8 \) not \( 8y \), but you might find it as a fun misinterpretation to note that the "y" could be a colorful twist in a math riddle!). Always double-check your variable assignments!