Definitions:

For any real numbers a, b and c

$$a(b + c) = ab + ac$$ $$(b + c)a = ba + ca$$ When dealing with the distributive law, just remember to multiply everything on the inside of the parentheses by the number on the outside of the parentheses.

A general example to help you recognize patterns and spot the information you're looking for

$$3(b + c) = 3b + 3c$$ $$(b + c)3 = b3 + c3$$

It’s used when you change money or distribute bulk quantities into smaller packages.