The Distributive Property states that
multiplying a sum by a number gives the
same result as multiplying each addend
by the number and then adding the
products
 The Distributive Property is represented
by the expression: a(b+c) = a x b + a x c

In other words, 12 x (3 + 4) = 12 X 3 + 12 x
4
 Both sides of the equation evaluate to 84
12 x (3 + 4) =
12 x 3 + 12 x 4 =
12 x (7) =
36 + 48 =
84
84

The property can also be used to
multiply variables and coefficients
 For example:
2(a + b) = 2a + 2b

To use the Distributive Property to Simplify
an expression, multiply the number outside
the parentheses by all of the terms inside
the parentheses
 If there is a negative, a minus sign, or a
negative number outside of the
parentheses, then all of the terms must be
multiplied by the negative as well.
 After using the Distributive Property, be sure
to combine any like terms that remain.
