Table of contents

0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
2. Graphs of Equations43m
3. Functions2h 17m
4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
5. Rational Functions1h 23m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
8. Conic Sections2h 23m
9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

College Algebra

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

1:27 minutes

Problem 137b

Textbook Question

Use the distributive property to calculate each value mentally. 7217+2817

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Distributive Property

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. This property allows us to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses. In the context of the given question, it can be applied to factor out the common term (17) from both products, simplifying the calculation.

Mental Math Techniques

Mental math techniques involve strategies that enable individuals to perform calculations in their heads without the use of paper or calculators. Techniques such as breaking numbers into smaller, more manageable parts or using the distributive property can significantly speed up calculations and improve accuracy.

Factoring

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, often to simplify calculations. In this problem, recognizing that both terms (72*17 and 28*17) share a common factor (17) allows us to rewrite the expression as 17*(72 + 28), making it easier to compute the final result.