What expression represents an unknown number subtracted from 8?

What expression represents an unknown number subtracted from 8?

• A. 8 + x
• B. 8 - x
• C. x - 8
• D. 8 / x

Answer: (B)

To represent an unknown number subtracted from 8, you would start with the number 8 and take away (subtract) the unknown value. This leads to the expression 8 minus the unknown number, which is commonly represented as \(8 - x\), where \(x\) stands for the unknown number. This expression directly illustrates the operation of subtraction, showcasing that you begin with 8 and then decrease that amount by the unknown value. The structure of the expression clearly indicates that the result will be less than 8 if \(x\) is a positive number. This aligns perfectly with the requirement of the problem, as it accurately represents the mathematical relationship described. The other answer choices do not fit the requirement of the question. For example, adding the unknown number to 8 or placing it in different positions within operations would alter the intended meaning of "an unknown number subtracted from 8."

To represent an unknown number subtracted from 8, you would start with the number 8 and take away (subtract) the unknown value. This leads to the expression 8 minus the unknown number, which is commonly represented as (8 - x), where (x) stands for the unknown number.

This expression directly illustrates the operation of subtraction, showcasing that you begin with 8 and then decrease that amount by the unknown value. The structure of the expression clearly indicates that the result will be less than 8 if (x) is a positive number. This aligns perfectly with the requirement of the problem, as it accurately represents the mathematical relationship described.

The other answer choices do not fit the requirement of the question. For example, adding the unknown number to 8 or placing it in different positions within operations would alter the intended meaning of "an unknown number subtracted from 8."