volume_mute
Which Expressions Are Equal to 9?
publish date: 2026/05/04 20:29:48.407255 UTC
volume_mute
Select all expressions that evaluate to \(9\).
Correct Answer
(1) \((-3)^2\)
(2) \(3^2\)
Explanation
\((-3)^2 = (-3)(-3) = 9\) — parentheses make \(-3\) the base. \(3^2 = 9\). But \(-3^2 = -(3 \times 3) = -9\) because without parentheses the base is \(3\) and the negative sign is applied after squaring.
Reference
Mathematics for college students