Question

use properties of rational numbers to simplify the expression

Answer 1

To simplify an expression using properties of rational numbers, you need to understand the rules that apply to rational numbers. Here are some common properties:

1. Commutative Property of Addition: The order of adding two rational numbers does not affect the sum. For example, a + b = b + a.

2. Commutative Property of Multiplication: The order of multiplying two rational numbers does not affect the product. For example, a * b = b * a.

3. Associative Property of Addition: When adding three or more rational numbers, the way you group them does not affect the sum. For example, (a + b) + c = a + (b + c).

4. Associative Property of Multiplication: When multiplying three or more rational numbers, the way you group them does not affect the product. For example, (a * b) * c = a * (b * c).

5. Distributive Property: When multiplying or dividing a rational number with a sum or difference inside parentheses, you can distribute the operation to each term inside the parentheses. For example, a * (b + c) = (a * b) + (a * c).

By applying these properties, you can simplify the expression and make it easier to work with.