Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression 4(2x - 5) using the distributive property.

Solution

The problem on the screen involves simplifying an expression using the distributive property. The given expression is:

4(2x5)4(2x - 5)

Here are the steps based on the distributive property:

  1. Distribute the 4 to each term inside the parentheses:

4(2x)4(5)4(2x) - 4(5)

  1. Find each product:
  • 4×2x=8x4 \times 2x = 8x
  • 4×5=204 \times 5 = 20

So the simplified expression is:

8x208x - 20

Would you like more details on this process or any related questions? Here are five related questions you might explore:

  1. What is the distributive property, and how does it apply to algebraic expressions?
  2. Can the distributive property be applied when there are more than two terms inside the parentheses?
  3. How would you distribute a negative number, like 4(3x7)-4(3x - 7)?
  4. What happens if both sides of the equation have parentheses that require distribution?
  5. How can this property be useful in solving equations with variables?

Tip: The distributive property works both ways; you can also factor an expression by taking common factors out of terms.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Distributive Property
Algebra

Formulas

a(b + c) = ab + ac

Theorems

Distributive Law in Algebra

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8