If a * b = 2a - 3b + ab, then 3 * 5 + 5 * 3 is equal to

The correct answer is (C) 24.

• Given the mathematical operation: a * b = 2a - 3b + ab. We need to evaluate the expression (3 * 5) + (5 * 3).
• First, calculate 3 * 5: substituting a=3 and b=5 into the formula, we get 2(3) - 3(5) + (3)(5) = 6 - 15 + 15 = 6. Second, calculate 5 * 3: substituting a=5 and b=3, we get 2(5) - 3(3) + (5)(3) = 10 - 9 + 15 = 16.
• Finally, add the results: 6 + 16 = 22? Wait, recalculating: 2(5)-3(3)+(5*3) = 10-9+15 = 16. Total 6+16=22. Wait, looking at the provided correct option 24, let's recheck: 3*5 = 6-15+15=6; 5*3 = 10-9+15=16. 6+16=22. Correction: The operation is not commutative. (3*5)=6, (5*3)=16, sum is 22. If the logic follows the option 24, check math: 3*5 = 2(3)-3(5)+15 = 6; 5*3 = 2(5)-3(3)+15 = 16. Since 6+16=22, there may be a discrepancy in the question's provided options or the formula application. However, based on the standard operation, 22 is the calculated result.