Linear equation from a difference and a factor Compute ? such that 8648 − 7652 = ? × 40.

Introduction / Context:
Turning a worded arithmetic statement into a simple linear equation is a basic but essential skill. Here, we isolate the unknown multiplier from a known difference and a given factor.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Equation: 8648 − 7652 = ? × 40.
• All numbers are exact integers.

Concept / Approach:
First compute the left-hand difference. Then divide that difference by 40 to isolate the unknown ?. This is a direct application of reversing multiplication by division.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Compute the difference: 8648 − 7652 = 996.Set up: 996 = ? × 40.Solve for ?: ? = 996 / 40 = 24.9.

Verification / Alternative check:
Multiply back: 24.9 × 40 = 996, which matches the computed difference.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
28.9, 27.4, 25.9, and 24.7 are close distractors; only 24.9 satisfies the exact equality.

Common Pitfalls:
Arithmetic slip in the subtraction or rounding the quotient instead of keeping the exact decimal 24.9.

Final Answer:
24.9