5(2-3) 4(8 1)

I assume you mean: 5(2-3)+4(8+1). Is that correct?

To evaluate an expression such as a(b+c) you multiply through by the 'a' value: a(b+c) = ab + ac

For example if you are asked to evaluate 6(8-2) you would multiply the 6 through to get: 6x8-6x2 = 48-12 = 36. You can then check the answer by doing the addition before the multiplication: since 8-2 =6 you have 6(8-2) = 6(6) = 36. See how you get the same answer two different ways?

Now see if you can solve your homework problem. Post back with your answer and we'll check it for you.