Question

What is the first step in simplifying the expression `(2-3times4+5)^2`?

Answer 1

The first step in simplifying this expression is to evaluate the terms within the parenthesis - starting with the multiplication and following the rules for operations in math.

Explanation:

`(2 - (3 xx 4) + 5)^2 = (2 - 12 + 5)^2 =`

`((2 - 12) + 5)^2 = (-10 + 5)^2 = (-5)^2 = 25`