Evaluating -x^2 + (yz - 3)^2

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Question from Kathy, a parent:

My daughter and I are having trouble solving this equation:

-x²+ (yz - 3)²

if x= -4,y=2 and z=0
We are having difficulty with the -x² part of the equation. Thanks

Kathy,

The convention in evaluating a mathematical expression is to evaluate exponents (powers) before multiplication or addition. Thus for -x² you first evaluate x² and then multiply by -1. Hence with x = -4, x² = (-4)² = 16 and therefore -x² = -16.

I hope this helps,
Penny

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