Order of operations HELP

Question

/I'm confused on how to handle this operation, as the answer says 9/4

The question: Simplify using order of operations. Write the answer as a mixed number, if possible. Here's the example.

(2-1/2) {To the second power, I don't know how to make an exponent on here.] This is confusing?

Answer 1

PEMDAS - () is first, handle what's inside.

2 - 1/2 = 4/2 - 1/2 = 3/2

Exponents is next: (3/2)^2 = 9/4

Answer 2

Hi Mary E

For clarity are we to assume that the answer of 9/4 applies to the example (2 - 1/2)² ? If so then

Since (2 - 1/2) is inside the parentheses we evaluate that first by doing the subtraction inside

“(2 - 1/2)” = (4 - 1)/2 = (3/2)

Next to drop the parentheses we square (3/2)² we multiply it times itself

3/2*3/2= 9/4

If you notice I spread out (2-1/2) as 2 minus 1/2. I did that because (2-1/2) could be mistaken as 2 and 1/2 which is (5/2). Squaring 5/2 does not work out to 9/4. I hope this helps.

Answer 3

A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction.

For instance, 9/4

notice that the numerator is 9 and the denominator is 4.

First 9 divided by 4 4 goes in 9 how many times 2 with remainder of 1. 4x2 = 8 1/4 left over

9/4 = 2-1/4 Check your answer: 4 x 2 = 8 + 1 = 9/4

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Let's evaluate 2 -1/2 which 2 x 2 = 4 +1 = 5/2

convert back ask yourself how many times 2 can be multiply not going over 5

2x 2 =4 with 1 left over that 1/2 so answer is 2-1/2.

Solution: 2 and 1/2 or 2 1/2

I hope the mathematical calculations (step by step approach) was helpful. Please let me know if you require any more assistance. If anyone in my neighborhood is interested in setting up an in-person math tutoring session. I look forward to hearing from them. Have an amazing day. Doris H.

Answer 4

Please Explain My Dear Aunt Sally

Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction...left to right

(2-1/2)²

Parentheses first; 2-1/2= 3/2

Exponents next (3/2)²=9/4

Of course, it is hard to explain how the inside of the parentheses fits with the rule!