this is the question on my math h. w.
define the distributive property in your own words. explain how you could mentally find 8×45 by using the distributive property

Mentally, I'd find it out like this:

8(40+5)

=8*40+8*5

=8*4*10+8*5

=320+40

=360

This is something called compatible numbers.  By doing this, you are applying the distributive property, but you are also making the problem simple enough to do in your head.  You gave 8 x 45Leave the 8 alone, but take the 45 and split it into two numbers that would add up to 45.  Don't go too wild and crazy, but keep it simple like 40 and 5.  Now multiply each number by 88 x 40 + 8 x 5you come up with 320 + 40when you add the two together, you have a sum of 360.  Clear as mud?