Use of Parenthesis: Wite (-x)2 is not equal to -x2 in words

[mwest05]

I am confused by the use of parenthesis in this problem and am having a difficult time understanding why the two sides are not equal? If I could understand what the parenthesis are for here I can figure out the rest on my own. Thank you in advance/

Write the sentence (-x)2 is not equal to -x2 in words. In your own words explain why (-x)2 and -x2 are not equivalent. Provide an example to support your explanation.

MaryAnn

[stapel_eliz]

By "x2", do you mean "x²" (also formatted as "x^2")? If so, then the issue comes down to negative numbers and their properties. And yes, the parentheses make all the difference!

Eliz.

P.S. Make sure that you read the fourth page in the lesson on negative numbers!