What is the value of x in the equation 2 (5x+4) = 17

To find the value of x in this equation, you have to isolate it. That isn't possible in the current state of the equation because of the 2 being right next to the parentheses. To get rid of it, distribute:

10x+8=17

Next, you need to get the 8 out of the way. To do this, subtract 8 from both sides, so it's all nice and even:

10x=11

Your final step is to divide both sides by 10 so x can be completely isolated and you can finally get your answer:

x=11/10 or 1.1

X = 9/10 is the answer to your question.