Just re-starting math after 3 years so getting the basics back! @MarkFL Evaluate the variable expression for x = 1, y = −2, and z = −3. xy − z(x − y)2 Would it be (1 x -2) - (-3)(1-(-2))^2? Then solve? the fun stuff starts later T.T
Yes, the first step is to plug in the given numbers for the variables, as you've done. Then recall the order of operations. I would write this as: (1)(-2) - (-3)((1) - (-2))^2 I would work within the parens first: (1)(-2) - (-3)(1 + 2)^2 (1)(-2) - (-3)(3)^2 Now the exponent: (1)(-2) - (-3)(9) Now the multiplications: -2 - (-27) -2 + 27 25 Your calculator may be able to evaluate that directly (to check your work), or you can use W|A: (1)(-2) - (-3)((1) - (-2))^2
@MarkFL is a true hero I start back to school on the 15th and will be taking math can I ask for your help in advance?
Okay, I would write it as: [(a^5b)/(a^3b^(-9))]^2 I would first work within the outer brackets, using the rule for exponents: x^a/x^b = x^(a - b) to get: [a^(5 - 3)b^(1-(-9))]^2 [a^2b^10]^2 Now square, using the rule: (x^a)^b = x^(ab) to get: a^(2*2)b^(10*2) a^4b^20 Does that make sense?