The distributive property is a fundamental property in mathematics that defines how multiplication is distributed over addition and subtraction. It states that multiplying the sum of two or more addends by a number will give the same result as multiplying each addend individually by the number and then adding the products together. In symbolic terms, the distributive property can be expressed as $A(B + C) = AB + AC$. This property is essential in simplifying expressions and solving mathematical problems. It is widely used in various mathematical areas, including algebra, order theory, and more.
The distributive property is a crucial concept in mathematics, and understanding it is fundamental for further studies in pre-algebra, algebra, and beyond. It allows for the simplification of expressions and plays a significant role in various mathematical operations.