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Understanding square roots is fundamental in prealgebra. A square root is the opposite action of squaring a number. When we find the square root of a number, we're looking for a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. For example, the square root of 16 is 4, because 4 multiplied by 4 equals 16.

Some key points about square roots include:

• The square root symbol is \( \sqrt{} \).
• Square roots can only be taken from non-negative numbers if we are dealing only with real numbers.
• The square root of a perfect square (like 16) is an integer.

To simplify \( \sqrt{16} \), we recognize 16 as 4 squared. Therefore, \( \sqrt{16} = 4 \). Understanding this helps in simplifying expressions that include square roots.

Expression simplification is an important skill in algebra and prealgebra. It involves reducing an expression to its simplest form. This means removing any unnecessary parentheses, combining like terms, and simplifying arithmetic operations.

In the given exercise, simplifying the square root term was the first step. Once \( \sqrt{16} \) was simplified to 4, the expression \( 2 - \sqrt{16} \) becomes \( 2 - 4 \). The next step involved performing basic arithmetic to further simplify the expression.

To simplify effectively, always perform operations in the correct order, known as the Order of Operations: Parentheses, Exponents (which include square roots), Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right). This is often memorized as PEMDAS.

Basic arithmetic operations include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These operations form the foundation of all mathematical calculations.

In the exercise, the operation required was subtraction: \( 2 - 4 \). When you subtract a larger number from a smaller one, you will end up with a negative number. Here, subtracting 4 from 2 results in -2.

To perform arithmetic operations properly, especially in longer expressions, remember these tips:

• Work operations step by step, solving them one at a time according to the order of operations.
• Be careful with signs, especially when dealing with negatives.
• Always double-check your work to ensure accuracy.

Understanding these operations thoroughly is crucial as they form the basis for more complex calculations in later math topics.