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According to the rules of the order of operations, since the exercise only involves multiplication, the order of the numbers can be changed.
We organize the exercise in such a way that we get a round number as a result of multiplying the first two numbers:
We solve the exercise from left to right:
540
\( 140-70= \)
Great question! The commutative property works for both addition AND multiplication. You can rearrange or in any order. The key is not mixing operations!
Look for pairs that make round numbers! In , multiplying 12 × 5 = 60 first is easier than 12 × 9 = 108. Always choose the path that simplifies your calculations.
If you get different answers, double-check your arithmetic! The commutative property guarantees the same result regardless of order. A different answer means there's a calculation error somewhere.
Yes! When multiplying three numbers, results grow quickly. Think about it: 12 groups of 9 gives you 108, then 108 groups of 5 gives you 540. That's why the answer is much larger than any single factor.
Calculators are helpful for checking, but practicing mental math with strategic grouping builds number sense! Try the rearrangement method first, then verify with technology.
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