Apply factoring to simplify the computation: Evaluate 356 × 936 − 356 × 836 by extracting the common factor.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 35600

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Expressions of the form a*b − a*c are tailor-made for the distributive property. Recognizing and factoring out the common term avoids heavy multiplication and reduces the chance of arithmetic mistakes.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Expression: 356 × 936 − 356 × 836.
  • Common factor: 356.
  • We want an exact numeric result.


Concept / Approach:
Use the distributive law: a*b − a*c = a*(b − c). This converts two large products and a subtraction into a single subtraction and one manageable multiplication, providing a neat and quick result.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Factor 356: 356 × (936 − 836).Compute the inner difference: 936 − 836 = 100.Multiply: 356 × 100 = 35600.Therefore, the value is 35600.


Verification / Alternative check:
If you compute 356 × 936 and 356 × 836 separately and then subtract, you will also reach 35600, confirming the factorization approach.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
93600 and 34500 come from misreading the difference or misapplying the common factor.49630 resembles a random product and does not honor the factorization identity.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to subtract the inner numbers first; multiplying 356 by 936 and 836 fully (time-consuming) and making a slip; swapping the terms and getting a sign error.


Final Answer:
35600

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion