Understanding the Distributive Property

What is the primary purpose of using the distributive property in Algebra 1?

• To solve quadratic equations

• To eliminate parentheses by multiplying

• To factor polynomials

• To simplify fractions

When using the distributive property, what should you do if the terms are not like terms?

• Combine them anyway

• Ignore them

• Leave them as they are

• Multiply them again

In the example 4 * (x^2 + 3x - 7), what is the result of distributing the 4?

• 4x^2 + 12x - 28

• 4x^2 + 3x - 7

• 4x^2 + 3x - 28

• 4x^2 + 12x + 28

What is the result of distributing 5x in the expression 5x * (3x^2 - 6 + 2)?

• 15x^3 - 30x^2 + 10x

• 15x^3 - 30x + 10

• 15x^2 - 30x^2 + 10x

• 15x^3 - 30x^2 + 2x

Why does 5x * 3x^2 result in 15x^3?

• Because 3x^2 is a constant

• Because 5x is a constant

• Because x^1 times x^2 is x^3

• Because 5 times 3 is 15