Distributive Property

Front

What is the Distributive Property?

Back

The Distributive Property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.

Front

Distribute 4 in (x - 6)4.

Back

4x - 24

Front

Distribute -2 in -2(x + 5).

Back

-2x - 10

Front

Distribute -3 in -3(2c - 5).

Back

-6c + 15

Front

Distribute 5 in (b + 8)5.

Back

5b + 40

Front

Distribute -4 in -4(k - 7).

Back

-4k + 28

Front

What does it mean to 'distribute' in mathematics?

Back

To distribute means to multiply each term inside the parentheses by the term outside the parentheses.

Front

If a = 3, what is the result of 2(a + 4)?

Back

2(3 + 4) = 2 * 7 = 14

Front

What is the result of 5(2x + 3)?

Back

10x + 15

Front

How do you apply the Distributive Property to negative numbers?

Back

You apply the Distributive Property the same way, but remember that multiplying by a negative number will change the sign of the terms.