A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

What does the Associative law allow regarding brackets?

1. It can add brackets

2. It can remove brackets

3. It can switch brackets

4. It makes brackets mandatory

The correct answer is: It can remove brackets

The Associative law, which applies to both addition and multiplication, allows for the rearrangement of the grouping of numbers in an expression without changing the result. Specifically, it states that when performing these operations, the way in which the numbers are grouped by brackets can be altered. For instance, in addition, the expression (a + b) + c can also be expressed as a + (b + c), and both result in the same value. This means that brackets can be removed or rearranged without affecting the overall outcome of the calculation. Thus, the correct answer relates directly to the ability to remove brackets as dictated by the Associative law. In contrast, the other options refer to functionalities that are not inherently related to the Associative law. Adding brackets or making them mandatory does not reflect the freedom afforded by this law, and switching brackets could imply a misunderstanding of how grouping is intended in the context of this law. In essence, the Associative law provides flexibility regarding bracket placement, highlighting its core principle.