Question

Explain how the Distributive Property can be used to solve the equation. 3(x + 4) = 36.

Answer 1

Multiply each term inside the parentheses by 3, then use inverse operations to solve.

I had this question on a test and it was correct!

Answer 2

Distributive property is basically expanding brackets.

So if you take 3(x + 4) = 36 and remove the brackets (so multiplying out the 3), you get:

3x + 12 = 36

And from there you simplify :)

3x + 12 = 36

3x = 24

x = 8

Distributive property was used to multiply the 3 through the brackets, thus making the equation easier to solve I guess