Understanding the Order of Operations: Solving (-5)^2 - 2 x (-9) + 6
The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the sequence in which mathematical operations are performed. This ensures that everyone arrives at the same answer when solving a problem. A common acronym to remember the order of operations is PEMDAS or BODMAS:
- Parentheses (or Brackets)
- Exponents (or Orders)
- Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
- Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)
Let's apply these rules to solve the expression (-5)^2 - 2 x (-9) + 6.
Step 1: Exponents
First, we address the exponent: (-5)^2 = 25
Step 2: Multiplication
Next, we perform the multiplication: 2 x (-9) = -18
Step 3: Addition and Subtraction
Finally, we perform the addition and subtraction from left to right:
- 25 - 18 = 7
- 7 + 6 = 13
Therefore, the solution to (-5)^2 - 2 x (-9) + 6 is 13.
Key Takeaways
Remember that the order of operations is crucial for accurate calculations. By following PEMDAS/BODMAS, you can ensure that you solve mathematical expressions correctly. It's also important to remember that multiplication and division, as well as addition and subtraction, have equal priority and are performed from left to right within the expression.