Answer and Step-by-step explanation: 
 
We are given: 18x - 2(3x + 1) = 5x - 16 
 
First, lets distribute the -2 to the 3x and 1. 
 
18x - 6x - 2 = 5x - 16 
 
Now, we combine like terms. 
 
12x - 2 = 5x - 16 
 
Next, we add 2 to each side. 
 
12x = 5x -14 
 
Now, we subtract 5x from both sides. 
 
7x = -14 
 
Finally, we divide by 7 on both sides. 
 
x = -2 
 
 Statements: Reasons: 
 
 18x - 2(3x + 1) = 5x - 16 Given 
 
 18x - 6x - 2 = 5x - 16 Distributive Property of Equality 
 
 12x - 2 = 5x - 16 Combine like terms 
 
 12x = 5x -14 Addition Property of Equality 
 
 7x = -14 Subtraction Property of Equality 
 
 x = -2 Division Property of Equality 
 
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