2-answer.jpeg "(-3)2 Answer")
Exponents: Understanding the Rule of (-3)²
In mathematics, exponents are used to represent repeated multiplication of a number by itself. For example, 2³ represents 2 multiplied by itself three times, or 2 × 2 × 2. But what happens when we have a negative base, like -3, and we raise it to a power of 2?
The Question: What is (-3)²?
The question at hand is: what is the value of (-3)²? To answer this, we need to understand the rules of exponents and how they work with negative numbers.
The Rule: Exponents with Negative Bases
When we have a negative base, like -3, and we raise it to a power, like 2, we need to follow a specific rule. This rule states that:
- If the exponent is even, the result will always be positive.
- If the exponent is odd, the result will always be negative.
In our case, since the exponent is 2, which is an even number, the result will be positive.
The Answer: Calculating (-3)²
Now, let's calculate the value of (-3)²:
(-3)² = (-3) × (-3) = 9
So, the answer is 9.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when dealing with exponents and negative bases, it's essential to follow the rules of exponents and consider the parity of the exponent. In this case, since the exponent is even, the result of (-3)² is positive, which is 9.
