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Definitions from the Web

Distributive Property

Description

The distributive property is a mathematical principle used in algebra to simplify equations involving both addition and multiplication. It states that when a number is multiplied by another number, and then the product is added to a third number, the operation can be simplified by multiplying the first number individually by the second and third numbers, and then adding the results together.

Senses and Usages

Mathematics:

1. Noun: The property that allows the multiplication of a number by a sum or difference to be performed as if each term of the sum or difference were multiplied separately by the number.

Example 1: In the equation 2(a + b), the distributive property can be applied by multiplying 2 with both a and b individually, resulting in 2a + 2b.

Example 2: The distributive property can be used to simplify the equation 3(x + 2y - z), which becomes 3x + 6y - 3z.

2. Adjective: Relating to or characterized by the distributive property.

Example 1: The distributive property rule simplifies complex algebraic expressions.

Example 2: The distributive property equation is fundamental to solving certain types of equations.

3. Verb: To apply the distributive property in simplifying an equation or expression.

Example 1: You need to distributive property the equation before solving it for the unknown variable.

Example 2: Distributive propertying this expression will make it easier to solve.

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