Question

Michael: (a)(b)(c)

Sadie: a + (b + c)
Ladonna: a + c + b
Miguel: a(b + c)
Students are asked to write an equivalent expression for a + b + c using the commutative property. Which student correctly wrote the expression?
A) Michael
B) Sadie
C) Ladonna
D) Miguel

Answer 1

Ladonna: a + c + b

Explanation:

-The commutative property in addition states that the order of arrangement of the integers to be added has no effect on their sum such that:

`x+y=y+x`

-Since the alphabet follows the order a,b, c....

Only Ladonna rearranged to change this order to show the commutative property.

-Hence, Ladonna wrote the expression correctly.

*The commutative property should not be confused with the associative property.

-The latter allows you to change the order and terms within the closed parentheses while retaining the answer.