Question

Explain why it might be easier to solve the multiplication problem by changing it from this: 5×87×2, to this: 5×2×87. Use a property of multiplication to justify your reasoning.

Answer 1

see below.

Explanation:

its a commutative property of multiplication.

it doesn't matter in order or not... the result will always be the same.

form your example 5×87×2, if you use a calculator it doesn't matter which number you start.

say 2 x 87 x 5 = 870

or 87 x 5 x 2 = 870

or 5 x 2 x 87 = 870

see the results are all the same no matter which way you go.

Answer 2

It makes the calculation easy and quick.

Explanation:

• Commutative Property of multiplication
• The product of two or more real numbers is not affected by the order in which they are being multiplied. In other words, real numbers can be multiplied in any order because the product remains the same.

When you multiply as it is given:

• 5×87×2=870
• Step 1) 5×87 = 435
• Step 2) 435×2 = 870

Using the commutative property makes it much easier:

• 5×2×87 = 870
• Step 1) 5×2 = 10
• Step 2) 10* 87 = 870