In these lessons, we will look at the distributive property and how it can be used to solve algebraic equations.
The following table shows the properties of real numbers: commutative property, associative property, distributive property, identity property, inverse property. Scroll down the page for examples and solutions of the distributive property.
The distributive property of addition and multiplication states that multiplying a sum by a number is the same as multiplying each addend by that number and then adding the two products.
To solve algebra equations using the distributive property, we need to distribute (or multiply) the number with each term in the expression. In that way, the brackets are removed. We can then combine like terms and solve by equivalent equations when necessary.
Remember to apply the following rules for sign multiplication when necessary.
How to solve multi-step equations by distributive property and combine like terms?
How to Solve Equations with the Distributive Property?
How to apply the distributive property to solve a multi-step equation?