Simplify the expression.7x² + 3 - 5(x² - 4)

Distribute −5 across the parentheses: −5(x² − 4) = −5x² + 20. Then combine like terms: 7x² − 5x² = 2x², and 3 + 20 = 23. The simplified expression is 2x² + 23, choice C.

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