Math Problem Statement

Simplify the given expression: 3(3 - 8)

Solution

The given expression is 3(38)3(3 - 8).

Let's simplify it step by step:

  1. Apply the distributive property, which means multiplying the number outside the parentheses by each term inside the parentheses: 3(38)=3×33×83(3 - 8) = 3 \times 3 - 3 \times 8

  2. Perform the multiplication: 3×3=9and3×8=243 \times 3 = 9 \quad \text{and} \quad 3 \times 8 = 24

  3. Now, subtract: 924=159 - 24 = -15

Thus, the simplified expression is 15-15.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this:

  1. How does the distributive property work in algebraic expressions?
  2. What are some common mistakes made when applying the distributive property?
  3. Can you apply the distributive property in reverse, factoring instead of expanding?
  4. How do you simplify expressions with variables using the distributive property?
  5. What happens when there are more than two terms inside the parentheses?

Tip: Always remember the order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) when simplifying expressions!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Distributive Property
Simplification

Formulas

Distributive Property: a(b + c) = ab + ac

Theorems

Distributive Property

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8