Chapter 1: Problem 36
Evaluate each expression. See Example 6 $$ (-7)^{2} $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
49
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Expression
We are given the expression \((-7)^2\). This means we need to square the number -7, which involves multiplying the number by itself.
02
Identify the Base and the Exponent
In the expression \((-7)^2\), -7 is the base, and 2 is the exponent. The exponent tells us how many times to use the base in the multiplication.
03
Square the Base
To square the base \(-7\), we multiply \(-7\) by itself: \(-7 \times -7\).
04
Calculate the Multiplication
Calculate the product: \(-7 \times -7 = 49\). The multiplication of two negative numbers results in a positive number.
05
Finalize the Answer
The result of squaring \(-7\) is 49. Therefore, \((-7)^2 = 49\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Squaring Numbers
Squaring a number is a way to find its value when multiplied by itself. For example, squaring the number 3 involves calculating \(3 \times 3\). The result, which is 9, is the square of 3. Similarly, for any number \(x\), its square is denoted by \(x^2\) and is equal to \(x \times x\). This concept is important because it shows how squaring can change the magnitude of a number, sometimes leading to much larger values.
- This operation is very common in mathematics, especially in algebra and geometry.
- Squaring applies to both positive and negative numbers.
- It's a foundational concept that will be built upon in more advanced topics like quadratic equations.
Negative Numbers
Negative numbers are numbers less than zero and are written with a minus sign (−) in front of them, like \(-1, -2, \) or \(-7\). These numbers work a bit differently than positive numbers, especially when it comes to operations like multiplication and squaring.
- When you square a negative number, the two negative signs cancel each other, resulting in a positive number. For example, squaring \(-7\) gives \(49\) because \((-7) \times (-7) = 49\).
- Understanding negative numbers is important for solving equations and working with real-life situations like debts or below-zero temperatures.
Multiplying Integers
Multiplying integers involves several basic rules, especially when incorporating negative numbers. When multiplying two integers:
- A positive times a positive yields a positive result.
- A negative times a negative also produces a positive result, as seen with \((-7) \times (-7) = 49\).
- A positive times a negative, or vice versa, yields a negative result. For example, \(5 \times (-2) = -10\).