Associativity Math Example 2
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 2
mediumUse associativity to make this multiplication easier: \(5 \times 4 \times 6\).
Solution
- 1 Notice \(5 \times 4 = 20\), then \(20 \times 6 = 120\).
- 2 Or notice \(4 \times 6 = 24\), then \(5 \times 24 = 120\).
- 3 Or: \(5 \times 6 = 30\), then \(30 \times 4 = 120\).
- 4 All groupings give \(5 \times 4 \times 6 = 120\).
Answer
120
Associativity lets you regroup factors. Choosing \((5 \times 4) \times 6 = 20 \times 6 = 120\) is one easy path.
About Associativity
A property where changing the grouping of operands does not change the result: .
Learn more about Associativity →