If we want to multiply a sum or difference by a number, we can multiply each term in the sum or difference by the number outside the parentheses.
Now, let's take a look at the first given expression.
2( 3.22- 0.12)
Let's use the Distributive Property to simplify the expression. We will start by multiplying both 3.22 and 0.12 by 2. Let's do it!
We got the same result both times. In this case, it seems to be easier to start by evaluating the difference inside the parentheses because this method requires fewer steps. However, we should always choose the method we prefer!
Let's take a look at the second expression.
12( 1/2+ 2/3)Like before, we will first simplify the expression by using the Distributive Property. Let's multiply both 12 and 23 by 12.
Next, let's simplify this expression in a different way. This time we will start by evaluating the sum first. Notice that we want to add two fractions with different denominators. This means that we need to rewrite both fractions so that they have a common denominator.
Here it seems easier to use the Distributive Property first because it does not require adding fractions with different denominators. Therefore, our preference may not the same for both expressions.
