/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 119 Explain why \(-3^{2}\) and \((-3... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91Ó°ÊÓ

91Ó°ÊÓ

Explain why \(-3^{2}\) and \((-3)^{2}\) simplify to different numbers.

Short Answer

Expert verified
\(-3^{2} = -9\) and \((-3)^{2} = 9\); parentheses affect the order of operations.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Expression -3²

The expression \(-3^{2}\) involves the exponentiation of the number 3 while maintaining the negative sign outside the exponentiation. It must be interpreted as \(-(3^{2})\), which means we first calculate \(3^{2}\) and then apply the negative sign.
02

Calculating 3²

Calculate \(3^{2}\), which means multiplying 3 by itself. \[ 3^{2} = 3 imes 3 = 9 \]
03

Applying the Negative Sign

After finding \(3^{2} = 9\), apply the negative sign in front to the result. \[ -3^{2} = -(9) = -9 \]
04

Understanding the Expression (-3)²

In the expression \((-3)^{2}\), the negative sign is within the parentheses, meaning the entire term \(-3\) is being squared.
05

Calculating (-3)²

Calculate \((-3)^{2}\), which involves multiplying \(-3\) by itself. \[ (-3)^{2} = -3 imes -3 = 9 \]
06

Comparing Results

From the calculations, \(-3^{2}\) yields -9, while \((-3)^{2}\) yields 9. The parentheses change the operation, squaring the entire term including the negative sign, resulting in different outcomes.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!

Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Negative Numbers
Negative numbers are numbers less than zero, represented by a minus sign (-). They are essential in mathematics, especially when dealing with temperatures, debts, or even the opposite direction in physics.
When performing mathematical operations with negative numbers, consider:
  • A negative sign before a number indicates it is less than zero, such as -5.
  • Multiplying two negative numbers results in a positive number, such as \(-2 \times -3 = 6\).
  • Adding a negative number means subtracting its absolute value, like \(5 + (-3) = 5 - 3 = 2\).
This understanding helps when dealing with expressions like \(-3^{2}\) and \((-3)^{2}\). Notice how the negative sign affects the result of calculations through placement and grouping.
Parentheses in Expressions
Parentheses play a crucial role in mathematics by determining which operations are performed first. They are used to group numbers and operations, ensuring correct interpretation and calculation.
Consider expressions with and without parentheses:
  • Without parentheses: In the expression \(-3^{2}\), the exponent only applies to 3, not the negative sign, because the calculation follows as \-1 \cdot (3^{2})\.
  • With parentheses: In the expression \((-3)^{2}\), both the negative number and the number 3 are squared together, as the parentheses group them as one entity, leading to \((-3) \cdot (-3)\).
Using parentheses wisely can alter the result significantly, which highlights their importance in mathematical expressions.
Order of Operations
The order of operations is a fundamental principle that guides which operations to perform first in a mathematical expression. Known by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction), it ensures consistent and correct results.
  • Parentheses: Perform the operations inside parentheses first.
  • Exponents: Next, solve any exponents.
  • Multiplication and Division: These operations are done from left to right.
  • Addition and Subtraction: Finally, perform these operations from left to right.
This order is crucial in solving expressions like \(-3^{2}\) and \((-3)^{2}\). Apply the order of operations by first addressing parentheses, then moving to exponents, and lastly addressing any multiplications involving negative numbers.

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.