The expression $(2 + a)b$ can be simplified by distributing the $b$ across the terms inside the parentheses:

$(2 + a)b = 2b + ab$

So, the simplified form is:

$2b + ab$

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How would you solve $(3 + x)y$ using the distributive property?
2. What happens if $a = 3$ and $b = 4$ in your original equation?
3. Can you factor the expression $2b + ab$ again?
4. How would this expression change if $b = -1$?
5. How does the distributive property help in expanding algebraic expressions?

Tip: Always distribute the factor outside the parentheses to every term inside to simplify expressions.