The equation is \( x + (x + 2) = 146 \).

["# Understanding the Equation: ( x + (x + 2) = 146 )", "Solving simple algebraic equations is a foundational skill in mathematics, essential for both students and lifelong learners. One common equation you might encounter is ( x + (x + 2) = 146 ). This equation appears simple, yet mastering its solution strengthens your algebraic thinking and problem-solving abilities.", "## What Does the Equation Represent?", "The expression ( x + (x + 2) = 146 ) translates to finding an unknown value ( x ) such that:", "- One term is just ( x )\n- The second term is ( x + 2 ), meaning two more than ( x )\n- Together, their sum equals 146", "This structure teaches combined linear expressions and the principles of simplifying and solving equations step by step.", "## Step-by-Step Solution", "### Step 1: Expand the equation\nRemove parentheses (since there’s no multiplication by parentheses, this step confirms the order of terms):\n[\nx + x + 2 = 146\n]", "### Step 2: Combine like terms\nAdd the ( x ) terms:\n[\n2x + 2 = 146\n]", "### Step 3: Isolate the variable\nSubtract 2 from both sides to eliminate the constant:\n[\n2x = 146 - 2\n]\n[\n2x = 144\n]", "### Step 4: Solve for ( x )\nDivide both sides by 2:\n[\nx = \frac{144}{2} = 72\n]", "## Final Answer", "The solution to the equation ( x + (x + 2) = 146 ) is:\n[\n\boxed{72}\n]", "Checking the solution:\n[\n72 + (72 + 2) = 72 + 74 = 146\n]\nThe equation holds true, confirming correctness.", "## Why This Equation Matters", "This problem reinforces key algebraic techniques:\n- Simplifying expressions with parentheses\n- Combining like terms\n- Isolating variables using inverse operations\n- Verifying solutions by substitution", "Understanding and solving such equations builds confidence and skill for more advanced math topics like graphing linear equations, systems of equations, and real-world applications involving unknown quantities.", "Whether you're a student tackling basic algebra or a curious learner refining mathematical intuition, equations like ( x + (x + 2) = 146 ) exemplify the clarity and logic at the heart of mathematics.", "---", "Keywords:\nequation solving, algebra basics, linear equations, solving for x, step-by-step algebra, math fundamentals, equation example, simplify expressions, algebra exercise, mathematical problem solving"]