Distributive Property of Multiplication

Front

What is the Distributive Property of Multiplication?

Back

The Distributive Property states that a number multiplied by a sum is equal to the sum of the products of that number and each addend. For example, a(b + c) = ab + ac.

Front

How can you use the Distributive Property to simplify (3 x 4) + (3 x 2)?

Back

You can factor out the common factor: 3 x (4 + 2) = 3 x 6 = 18.

Front

What does it mean to 'distribute' in multiplication?

Back

To 'distribute' means to multiply each addend in a sum by the number outside the parentheses.

Front

If you have (5 x 3) + (5 x 4), how can you use the Distributive Property?

Back

You can factor out the 5: 5 x (3 + 4) = 5 x 7 = 35.

Front

What is an example of using the Distributive Property with numbers?

Back

For example, 2 x (3 + 5) = 2 x 3 + 2 x 5 = 6 + 10 = 16.

Front

How can you check your work when using the Distributive Property?

Back

You can check by calculating both sides of the equation to see if they are equal.

Front

What is the result of (4 x 3) + (4 x 2) using the Distributive Property?

Back

You can factor out the 4: 4 x (3 + 2) = 4 x 5 = 20.

Front

If you see (x x 3) + (x x 4), what can you do?

Back

You can factor out x: x x (3 + 4) = x x 7.

Front

What is the first step in using the Distributive Property?

Back

Identify the common factor that can be factored out from the terms.

Front

Can the Distributive Property be used with subtraction?

Back

Yes, it can be used with subtraction as well: a(b - c) = ab - ac.