More help needed!

Mike will combine the two rectangular pieces of marble shown below to make a kitchen counter.
http://i.imgur.com/1iVvW.gif

Which expression could be used to calculate the amount of space in square feet (ft2) that the two pieces of marble will provide?

A. 4 x 3 + 5 ft2

B. 4 + 3 x 5 ft2

C. 4 (3+5)ft2

D. 4 (3x5) ft2

Question

More help needed! 

Mike will combine the two rectangular pieces of marble shown below to make a kitchen counter.
http://i.imgur.com/1iVvW.gif

Which expression could be used to calculate the amount of space in square feet (ft2) that the two pieces of marble will provide?

	
A. 4 x 3 + 5 ft2
	
B. 4 + 3 x 5 ft2
	
C. 4 (3+5)ft2
	
D. 4 (3x5) ft2

anonymous · Answer

C. 4 (3+5)ft2

anonymous · Answer

because you have to add the area of both rectangles

directrix · Answer

C. 4 (3+5)ft2

The area expression begins as 4*3 + 4*5 but that is not one of the options.

4 is a common factor and the Distributive Property is used to factor out the 4 which yields  4( 3 + 5) square feet.