Explain how to use mental math to simplify the expression.
a.) 8 * 3 * 2
b.) 8 * 2 + 3
c.) 5 + 8 + 3
d.) 10 * 3 -4
I have to explain the process.
Example: Using the associative property of multiplication I can group 8*(3*2) so I get 8*6. Then I multiply 8*6 which is 48.
You did a good job with a. If there are no parentheses, multiply first before adding or subtracting.
To simplify the expressions using mental math, follow these steps:
a.) 8 * 3 * 2
First, multiply 3 and 2, giving you 6. Then multiply 8 by 6. The result is 48.
b.) 8 * 2 + 3
Multiply 8 by 2, which equals 16. Then add 3 to 16. The result is 19.
c.) 5 + 8 + 3
Simply add the three numbers: 5 + 8 + 3. The sum is 16.
d.) 10 * 3 - 4
Multiply 10 by 3, which is 30. Then subtract 4 from 30. The result is 26.
In each case, use the order of operations (also known as PEMDAS/BODMAS) to simplify the expression correctly.