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P.1 Understand properties of multiplication

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What are the properties of multiplication?

Properties of multiplication are rules that help us understand how numbers work when multiplying. These rules make it easier to solve problems and check our answers.

Examples of properties:
  • Commutative Property
  • Associative Property
  • Distributive Property
  • Identity Property
  • Zero Property
Note

Each property has its own rule. Learning them helps you see patterns and solve multiplication problems more quickly.

Commutative Property

The Commutative Property says you can change the order of the numbers you multiply, and the answer will stay the same.

Example:
  • 3 × 4 = 12
  • 4 × 3 = 12
Note

Think of it as “switching places” without changing the product.

Associative Property

The Associative Property says you can group numbers in different ways when multiplying, and the product will not change.

Example:
  • (2 × 3) × 4 = 6 × 4 = 24
  • 2 × (3 × 4) = 2 × 12 = 24
Note

“Associative” means “to group.” The way you group numbers does not change the answer.

Distributive Property

The Distributive Property lets you break apart a multiplication problem into smaller parts, then add the results together.

Example:
  • 6 × (2 + 3) = (6 × 2) + (6 × 3)
  • 6 × 5 = 12 + 18 = 30
Note

This property is very helpful when multiplying larger numbers.

Identity Property

The Identity Property says that any number multiplied by 1 stays the same.

Example:
  • 7 × 1 = 7
  • 1 × 15 = 15
Note

The number 1 is called the “multiplicative identity” because it keeps numbers the same.

Zero Property

The Zero Property says that any number multiplied by 0 equals 0.

Example:
  • 9 × 0 = 0
  • 0 × 25 = 0
Note

Multiplying by 0 “wipes out” the other number, leaving the product as 0.