What is an example of the associative property of addition?

An example of the associative property of addition is (1 + 2) + 5 = 1 + (2 + 5). The associative property of addition states that the sum of any set of numbers is the same regardless of how the numbers are grouped together.

The property applies to any group of at least three numbers. On the left side of the above example, the 1 and 2 are grouped together, while the 5 is separate. Solving that side involves adding the 1 and 2 for a total of 3, then adding that to the 5 for a total of 8. On the right side of the example, the same numbers are used, but the 2 and 5 are grouped together, while the 1 is separate. Solving for that side involves adding the 2 and 5 for a total of 7, then adding the 1 for a total of 8. As predicted by the associative property of addition, both sides are equal.