implify the following expressions. Write the strategy used bel \begin{tabular}{l|l}\( -3(x+4) \) & \( -2 a-3+4 a+8 \) \\ \( -3 x-12 \)\end{tabular}

We are given two expressions to simplify. The strategy for both is to use the distributive property (if needed) and then combine like terms. 1. Expression: –3(x + 4)   • Use the distributive property: multiply –3 by x and –3 by 4.    –3 · x = –3x    –3 · 4 = –12   • Thus, the simplified expression is –3x – 12. 2. Expression: –2a – 3 + 4a + 8   • Group like terms: combine the a-terms and the constant terms.    a-terms: –2a + 4a = 2a    Constants: –3 + 8 = 5   • The simplified expression is 2a + 5. Summary of Strategy:   • Use the distributive property where necessary.   • Group and combine like terms. Final Answers:   –3(x + 4) simplifies to –3x – 12   –2a – 3 + 4a + 8 simplifies to 2a + 5