Find each product or quotient where possible. See Example 2. -8(-5)

Key Concepts

Multiplication of Integers

Multiplication of integers involves combining two whole numbers to find their product. In this case, multiplying -8 by -5 results in a positive product because the multiplication of two negative numbers yields a positive result. Understanding this principle is essential for solving problems involving negative integers.

Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that dictates the sequence in which mathematical operations should be performed to ensure consistent results. The acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction) helps remember this order. In the given expression, multiplication is performed before any other operations, which is crucial for accurate calculations.

Properties of Multiplication

The properties of multiplication include the commutative, associative, and distributive properties, which help simplify calculations. The commutative property states that the order of factors does not affect the product, while the associative property allows for grouping factors in any way. Recognizing these properties can aid in solving more complex expressions and understanding the underlying structure of multiplication.