Problem 230 - Prealgebra

Question

In the following exercises, translate from math notation to words. $$(20)(15)$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Twenty multiplied by fifteen.

Step 1 - Identify the Operation

Recognize that the expression consists of two numbers, 20 and 15, enclosed in parentheses and multiplied together.

Step 2 - Describe the Multiplication

Describe the operation in words. The expression involves multiplying the number 20 by the number 15.

Step 3 - Combine the Description

Combine the identified numbers with the described operation in a complete sentence. 'Twenty multiplied by fifteen' is the correct translation.

Key Concepts

Multiplication

Multiplication is one of the basic operations in mathematics. It is used to calculate the total when you have a number of groups, each containing the same number of items.

For example, if you have 3 bags with 4 apples each, multiplication helps to find out how many apples you have in total. You would multiply 3 (the number of bags) by 4 (the number of apples in each bag) to get 12 apples in total.

The multiplication operation is often symbolized by an asterisk (*), an 'x', or by parentheses as in our exercise: (20)(15). This shows that the two numbers, 20 and 15, are multiplied together. In words, you would say 'twenty multiplied by fifteen'.

Mathematical Expressions

Mathematical expressions are combinations of numbers, variables, and operators that represent a value. An expression might consist of just a single number or a combination of numbers and operations.

In our exercise, the mathematical expression is (20)(15). Here, the numbers 20 and 15 are multiplied together. This expression can be translated into words as 'twenty multiplied by fifteen'.

Translating math notation to words helps in understanding and communicating mathematical ideas. It makes complex mathematical concepts accessible and easier to grasp, especially for beginners.

Step-by-Step Solutions

Solving mathematical problems with a step-by-step approach is effective because it breaks down the problem into manageable parts.

Let's look over each step:

• Step 1 - Identify the Operation: In our problem, you see an expression (20)(15), which means two numbers are being multiplied.
• Step 2 - Describe the Multiplication: Say out loud or write that you are multiplying 20 by 15.
• Step 3 - Combine the Description: Put it all together in words to describe the operation completely: 'Twenty multiplied by fifteen.'

Taking these steps ensures you understand not only the process but also the reason behind each step. This practice helps build a strong mathematical foundation.