what is commutative property

Question

what is it

Answer 1

It helps to know that these "properties" of which we speak are basically traits of operations.  For example, if I sautee some onions in butter, I have to put the butter in the pan first so it will melt.  If I put the onions in first, I will not get the same result that I would if I put the butter in first.  So, sauteeing onions is not commutative.

When I microwave rice, it doesn't matter if I put the water in first or the rice.  So in that fashion, microwaving rice IS commutative.

I hope you know something about cooking, or else what I said doesn't make any more sense than what you've already read.  :)

Answer 2

This does not work with subtraction. Only with addition and muplication.

Example:

2-1 does not equal 1-2

Answer 3

A mathematical operation (addition, subtraction, taking derivatives, integration, etc) that is commutative means that you can change the order in which you carry out your calculations and you'll get the same result.

Answer 4

It means that changing the numbers of the equation will not change the outcome.

Example:

4+5=5+4

This can be used in addtion, subtraction, multiplication etc. Though it cannot be used in division as 1/2 does not equal 2/1.

I hope this helps.