The Distributive Property: A Fundamental Concept in Algebra
The equation (y^2 + y)(3y^3 - 2y^3) = y^2(3y^3 - 2y^3) + y(3y^3 - 2y^3) is a perfect example of the distributive property in algebra.
Understanding the Distributive Property
The distributive property states that multiplying a sum by a number is the same as multiplying each addend of the sum by the number and then adding the products.
In simpler terms, we can "distribute" a factor to each term inside parentheses.
Applying the Property to the Equation
In the given equation, we have:
- (y^2 + y) as the sum being multiplied
- (3y^3 - 2y^3) as the factor being distributed
The equation demonstrates how the distributive property works:
- Distributing to the first term: y^2(3y^3 - 2y^3)
- Distributing to the second term: y(3y^3 - 2y^3)
This process expands the original expression, making it easier to simplify and solve.
Importance of the Distributive Property
The distributive property is a fundamental concept in algebra, used for:
- Simplifying expressions: Expanding expressions like the one in the example.
- Solving equations: It is often used to remove parentheses and combine like terms.
- Factoring expressions: The reverse process of the distributive property helps in factoring out common factors.
Understanding and applying the distributive property is crucial for successful algebraic manipulation and problem-solving.