which of the following correctly demonstrates the commutative property of addition

a. 123 + 456 = 579
b. abc + xyz = xyz + abc
c. 0+579=579
d. abcxyz = zyxcba

1 answer

The commutative property of addition states that changing the order of the numbers being added does not change the sum. Mathematically, this is expressed as \( a + b = b + a \).

Among the options provided:

a. \( 123 + 456 = 579 \) — This statement is incorrect as \( 123 + 456 = 579 \) is a true mathematical equation, but it does not demonstrate the commutative property.

b. \( abc + xyz = xyz + abc \) — This correctly demonstrates the commutative property of addition, as it shows that the order of the terms can be switched without changing the sum.

c. \( 0 + 579 = 579 \) — This statement is true, but it does not demonstrate the commutative property.

d. \( abcxyz = zyxcba \) — This is not relevant to the commutative property of addition.

Therefore, the correct answer is b. \( abc + xyz = xyz + abc \).