Which property is indicated when stating that a + 0 = a?

Which property is indicated when stating that a + 0 = a?

• A. Commutative Law for Addition
• B. Identity Law for Addition
• C. Associative Law for Addition
• D. Distributive Law

Answer: (B)

The statement a + 0 = a reflects the Identity Law for Addition, which defines the identity element in addition. The identity element is a value that, when added to any number, results in the original number itself. In this case, the number 0 serves as the identity element because adding 0 to a number does not change its value; it retains its identity. This law is fundamental in arithmetic and ensures that every number maintains its value when interacted with its identity element. The other properties listed involve different operations and relationships. The Commutative Law for Addition states that the order of the numbers does not affect the sum, while the Associative Law for Addition relates to how numbers are grouped in addition. The Distributive Law involves distributing a multiplication over addition or subtraction. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the Identity Law for Addition specifically relates to the equation given.

The statement a + 0 = a reflects the Identity Law for Addition, which defines the identity element in addition. The identity element is a value that, when added to any number, results in the original number itself. In this case, the number 0 serves as the identity element because adding 0 to a number does not change its value; it retains its identity. This law is fundamental in arithmetic and ensures that every number maintains its value when interacted with its identity element.

The other properties listed involve different operations and relationships. The Commutative Law for Addition states that the order of the numbers does not affect the sum, while the Associative Law for Addition relates to how numbers are grouped in addition. The Distributive Law involves distributing a multiplication over addition or subtraction. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the Identity Law for Addition specifically relates to the equation given.