Question

How do you simplify $2(n+2n)$ ?

Answer 1

Hint: In the given question, we have been asked to simplify a linear expression with one variable. In order to proceed with the following question we either need to use distributive property or use the BODMAS rule. By distributive property you can divide the number outside the bracket into the terms inside the bracket and then add both the products. Whereas BODMAS rule states to solve the terms inside the brackets first then deal with other operations in order – Multiplication, Division, Addition and Subtraction. In this question, you have to add the terms inside the bracket and then multiply with the term outside it.

Complete step by step solution:
We are given,
 $2(n+2n)$
Simplify by opening the brackets,
 $\Rightarrow 2n+4n$
Now, we’ll add the coefficients of the variables
 $\Rightarrow 6n$
Alternative method-
We are given,
 $2(n+2n)$
First, solve the brackets,
 $\Rightarrow 2(3n)$
Then, multiply
 $\Rightarrow 6n$
So, the correct answer is “6n”.

Note: Distributive Property of multiplication lets you simplify expressions in which you are multiplying a number by a sum or a difference. This property is very useful in real life as well, and you use it without realizing. For example, when a group of people order ice-cream, and it happens to be of the same flavor and order a packet of chips along with it. While calculating the amount to be paid, you can multiply sum times the number of people in the group or multiply the number of people to the cost of ice cream and to the cost of chips individually and then add them both. In both the ways you’ll get the same answer