%5E2-without-parentheses.jpeg "(5v)^2 Without Parentheses")
What does 5v^2 mean without parentheses?
In mathematics, the order of operations is crucial to ensure that expressions are evaluated correctly. The acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction) is a common way to remember the order.
When we see an expression like 5v^2, without parentheses, the order of operations dictates that the exponent is evaluated before the multiplication.
Here's how it works:
- Exponent: The term v^2 means v multiplied by itself (v * v).
- Multiplication: The result of v^2 is then multiplied by 5.
Therefore, 5v^2 is equivalent to 5 * (v * v).
Example:
If v = 3, then:
- v^2 = 3 * 3 = 9
- 5v^2 = 5 * 9 = 45
Important Note: If the intention was to square the entire expression (5v), parentheses would be necessary: (5v)^2. In this case, the entire expression (5v) would be multiplied by itself: (5v) * (5v) = 25v^2.
Always remember to pay close attention to the order of operations when dealing with mathematical expressions. Understanding this will ensure you get the correct answer every time.