Simplify: (2x + 5) -- (3x -- 2)

To simplify the expression ((2x + 5) - (3x - 2)), it’s important first to distribute the negative sign across the second group of terms, which leads to

[

2x + 5 - 3x + 2.

]

Next, combine the like terms. Start with the (x) terms:

[

2x - 3x = -x.

]

Then, combine the constant terms:

[

5 + 2 = 7.

]

Putting these results together gives:

[

-x + 7,

]

which is the simplified form of the original expression. This is why the correct choice accurately represents the simplified expression. The final result reflects that when simplifying expressions, keeping track of positive and negative signs, as well as combining like terms, is crucial for accuracy.