Distributive Property Calculator

Apply a(b + c) = ab + ac and verify both sides match.

a(b + c) 32

a·b 20

a·c 12

Formula: a(b + c) = ab + ac

Step-by-step with your numbers:

1. Values used:

2. a = 4

3. b = 5

4. c = 3

6. a(b + c) = 32

7. a·b = a x b = 4 x 5 = 20

8. a·c = 12

Did we solve your problem today?

The distributive property lets you multiply a sum by multiplying each term separately.

The math behind it

a(b + c) = ab + ac. Both forms give the same answer, which is the basis of expanding brackets in algebra.

4(5 + 3) = 4·5 + 4·3 = 20 + 12 = 32.

Does it work for subtraction?

Yes — a(b − c) = ab − ac.