1. **State the problem:** Solve for $x$ in the equation $$2(3x + 8) = 70$$ and simplify the answer. 2. **Apply the distributive property:** Multiply 2 by each term inside the parentheses: $$2 \times 3x + 2 \times 8 = 6x + 16$$ So the equation becomes: $$6x + 16 = 70$$ 3. **Isolate the term with $x$:** Subtract 16 from both sides: $$6x + \cancel{16} - \cancel{16} = 70 - 16$$ $$6x = 54$$ 4. **Solve for $x$:** Divide both sides by 6: $$\frac{6x}{\cancel{6}} = \frac{54}{\cancel{6}}$$ $$x = 9$$ 5. **Final answer:** The simplified solution is $$x = 9$$ The previously given answer $x=10$ is incorrect because it does not satisfy the original equation.