Prentice Hall Algebra 1

1-7 The Distributive Property

Objective

To use the Distributive Property to simplify expressions

A Solve It exercise involves finding the best score for a video game.
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To solve problems in mathematics, it is often useful to rewrite expressions in simpler forms. The Distributive Property, illustrated by the area model below, is another property of real numbers that helps you to simplify expressions.

1 rectangle has a length of x ­+ 5 units and a width of 8 units. A second rectangle is divided into 2 smaller rectangles, one with a length of x and a width of 8, the other with a length of 5 and a width of 8.
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Essential Understanding You can use the Distributive Property to simplify the product of a number and a sum or difference.


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Table of Contents

Prentice Hall Algebra 1 Chapter 1 Foundations for Algebra Chapter 2 Solving Equations Chapter 3 Solving Inequalities Chapter 4 An Introduction to Functions Chapter 5 Linear Functions Chapter 6 Systems of Equations and Inequalities Chapter 7 Exponents and Exponential Functions Chapter 8 Polynomials and Factoring Chapter 9 Quadratic Functions and Equations Chapter 10 Radical Expressions and Equations Chapter 11 Rational Expressions and Functions Chapter 12 Data Analysis and Probability Skills Handbook Reference Visual Glossary Selected Answers Index Acknowledgments