Find the GCF from the two numbers, and rewrite the sum using the distributive property. \( 24+36 \)

The greatest common factor (GCF) of 24 and 36 is 12, since 12 is the largest number that divides both evenly. Now, using the distributive property, we can rewrite the sum as \( 24 + 36 = 12 \times 2 + 12 \times 3 = 12(2 + 3) \). So, we can express it as \( 12(5) \), making it clear that the sum can be simplified further! The GCF approach not only makes calculations easier but can also unveil patterns in numbers! For example, once you identify the GCF, you can look for other numbers that share the same factors, leading to fascinating insights about multiplication and division. It’s like discovering connections in a web of numbers!