According to the order of operations, expressions inside parentheses are evaluated first, while addition and subtraction are evaluated last. For the given expression, this means evaluating the expression within brackets completely before multiplying by - 3.
-3(4+6Ă·2)^2
Notice also that even within this parenthetical expression, we must obey the order of operations.
(4+6Ă·2)^2
For this, we must remember to evaluate the divison first, the addition next, and finally the exponent.
Operation
Before Simplification
After Simplification
Calculate quotient
-3(4+6Ă· 2)
-3(4+ 3)^2
Add terms
-3(4+ 3)^2
-3( 7)^2
Calculate power
-3(7)^2
-3( 49)
Multiply
-3( 49)
- 147
The expression equals - 147.
Alternative Solution
Using a Calculator
We can also evaluate this expression using a calculator. To do so, type it as shown below.
