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The distributive property is also known as the distributive law of multiplication over addition and subtraction.

To apply the distributive law:

  • Step 1: Multiply each number in the sum or difference by the number outside the parentheses.
  • Step 2: Evaluate.

The distributive property formula:

Working with distributive property

Example:

-220 = -5(5x+4)

Solution:

Step1:

Open the parentheses by the distribution property

-220 = -25x - 20

Step2:

Switch 25x and 220, and multiply each side by -1

-25x = -220 + 20

Step3:

Subtract:

-25x = -200

Step4:

Divide -200 by -25

Answer: x = 8