Use the distributive property to write an equivalent expression. \[ 5(w-2 x+9) \]

Distributing the 5 across each term inside the parentheses gives you \( 5 \cdot w - 5 \cdot 2x + 5 \cdot 9 \). Simplifying that, the equivalent expression is \( 5w - 10x + 45 \). This step illustrates how the distributive property helps us break down an expression into simpler components, making it easier to work with in equations or further calculations. So next time you see these parentheses, just remember: unleash the distributive power and simplify away!