1. The problem is to verify the equality of expressions using the associative property of multiplication. 2. The associative property states that for any numbers $a$, $b$, and $c$, the equation $$(a \times b) \times c = a \times (b \times c)$$ holds true. 3. Let's check each given expression: - First: $$(5 \times 8) \times 2 = 2 \times (20 \times 2)$$ Calculate left side: $$5 \times 8 = 40$$ so $$40 \times 2 = 80$$ Calculate right side: $$20 \times 2 = 40$$ so $$2 \times 40 = 80$$ Both sides equal 80, so the equality holds. - Second: $$(5 \times 8) \times 2 = 2 \times (5 \times 8)$$ Left side as above is 80. Right side: $$5 \times 8 = 40$$ so $$2 \times 40 = 80$$ Both sides equal 80, so the equality holds. - Third: $$(5 \times 8) \times 2 = 5 \times (8 \times 2)$$ Left side is 80. Right side: $$8 \times 2 = 16$$ so $$5 \times 16 = 80$$ Both sides equal 80, so the equality holds. 4. All expressions demonstrate the associative property of multiplication, confirming that grouping does not affect the product. Final answer: All given equalities are true by the associative property of multiplication.