So, here is the Order of Operations you would use to break down the problem.
1. Parenthesis
2. Multiplication and Division
3. Addition and Subtraction
(Note: for future problems, if you have two of the same sign, you just work left to right, as if you were reading a sentence.)
So: 17-2(5-3)
First, do what is in the Parenthesis: 5-3=2
Now you have 17-2 x 2 (when the numbers are bumped up against the parenthesis like that, it always means to multiply), so you do the multiplication next: 17-4
Now do the subraction and you have your answer! 17-4=13
Roman C.
There is an error in my last step (ignored the squaring accidently). it should be 3^3*7/9*3^2+4-2^5 = 27*7/9*9+4-32 = 189+4-32 = 161
10/19/12