What does the Distributive Property state?

The Distributive Property is a fundamental principle in algebra that refers to the way multiplication interacts with addition. Specifically, it states that multiplying a number by a sum is the same as multiplying that number by each term in the sum separately and then adding the results.

In this context, the expression a(b + c) = ab + ac illustrates this principle perfectly. Here, "a" is distributed to both "b" and "c," leading to the products "ab" and "ac," which are then summed together. This property is critical in simplifying expressions and solving equations, as it allows for easier manipulation of terms.

The other options represent different algebraic properties: one demonstrates the commutative property of addition, which states that the order in which two numbers are added does not affect the sum. Another denotes the associative property of addition, which indicates that how numbers are grouped in addition does not change their sum. While these properties are important in their own right, they do not express the relationship outlined by the Distributive Property, making the answer focused on the distribution process the accurate choice.