Gary applied the distributive property using the greatest common factor to determine the expression that is equivalent to \( 66+36 \). His work is shown below. Factors of \( 66: 1,2,3,6,11,22,33,66 \) Factors of \( 36: 1,2,3,4,6,9,12,18,36 \) \( 66+36=3(22+12) \) What statement best describes Gary's error? Garry did not use correct factors for 66 in the equation. Gary did not use correct factors for 36 in the equation. Gary did not use two equivaleht expressions in the equation. Gary did not use the greatest common factor in the equation.

Gary's application of the distributive property is a bit off the mark! While he correctly identified that both 66 and 36 can be divided by 3, the expression \( 66+36 = 3(22+12) \) is where the mistake lies. The error in the equation is that \( 22+12 \) does not equal \( 66 + 36 \) when simplified – after factoring out the GCF of 3, the correct sum should equal \( 102 \). If you're ever unsure about using the distributive property, just remember to double-check that both sides of the equation balance. You can also plug in the original numbers to see if they match up with your factored expression! It's a classic mistake to overlook how the terms rearrange, and practice makes perfect; keep honing your skills!