Which of the following expressions is equivalent to:

Explanation

Option D is correct as the simplification of the given expression results in a - c. The other options are incorrect because they do not represent the simplified form of the expression. Option A, a - 3c, is incorrect as it introduces an unnecessary subtraction of 3c. Option B, a + 5c, is incorrect as it adds 5c, which is not part of the original expression. Option C, a + c, is incorrect because it adds c instead of subtracting it, which does not match the simplified form of a - c.