Step 1: Rearranging the equation The given equation is: \[ 5x - 7 = 3x + 9 \] To solve for \( x \), first subtract \( 3x \) from both sides: \[ 2x - 7 = 9 \] Next, add 7 to both sides: \[ 2x = 16 \] Step 2: Solve for \( x \) Now, divide both sides by 2: \[ x = \frac{16}{2} = 8 \] Answer: The correct answer is option (2): \( x = 8 \).