How do I multiply 24 times 18
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To multiply 24 by 18, follow these steps:
- Break down the numbers:
First, break the numbers into smaller, more manageable parts using the distributive property of multiplication. This property allows us to multiply each part separately and then add the results together. ( 24 \times 18 = (20 + 4) \times 18 ) - Multiply each part separately:
- First, multiply 20 by 18:
[
20 \times 18 = 360
] - Then, multiply 4 by 18:
[
4 \times 18 = 72
]
- Add the results together:
Finally, add the two products:
[
360 + 72 = 432
]
So, ( 24 \times 18 = 432 ).
Explanation:
Multiplication is a way of adding a number repeatedly. When you multiply 24 by 18, you are adding 24 a total of 18 times. However, to make the calculation easier, we can break down the number 24 into 20 and 4, which are simpler to multiply by 18.
This method is based on the distributive property of multiplication, which states that:
[
(a + b) \times c = a \times c + b \times c
]
In this case, we used ( 20 + 4 ) to break down 24, and then multiplied each part by 18. The distributive property helps simplify multiplication, especially when dealing with larger numbers, as it allows you to multiply smaller, more easily manageable components.
Alternatively, you could also use long multiplication, a more traditional approach, where you multiply each digit individually and carry over any extra values. In this case, both methods lead to the same answer: 432.
The distributive method is often preferred for mental math, as it allows you to work with smaller numbers and then combine the results, saving time and reducing the chances of errors.