The Last Operation Performed

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 130 views

Understanding the Problem

When evaluating algebraic expressions, it's essential to follow the correct order of operations to ensure accurate results. In this article, we'll explore the last operation performed when evaluating the expression $$(8-2x)^2+4$$ for $$x=3$$.

The Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the order in which mathematical operations should be performed when there are multiple operations in an expression. The acronym PEMDAS is commonly used to remember the order of operations:

Parentheses: Evaluate expressions inside parentheses first.
Exponents: Evaluate any exponential expressions next.
Multiplication and Division: Evaluate multiplication and division operations from left to right.
Addition and Subtraction: Finally, evaluate any addition and subtraction operations from left to right.

Evaluating the Expression

Let's evaluate the expression $$(8-2x)^2+4$$ for $$x=3$$ step by step:

Step 1: Substitute the value of x

First, we need to substitute the value of x into the expression:

(8-2(3))^2+4

Step 2: Evaluate the expression inside the parentheses

Next, we need to evaluate the expression inside the parentheses:

(8-6)^2+4

Step 3: Simplify the expression

Now, we can simplify the expression:

(2)^2+4

Step 4: Evaluate the exponent

Next, we need to evaluate the exponent:

4+4

Step 5: Add the numbers

Finally, we need to add the numbers:

8

The Last Operation Performed

Based on the steps above, the last operation performed when evaluating the expression $$(8-2x)^2+4$$ for $$x=3$$ is Addition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when evaluating algebraic expressions, it's essential to follow the correct order of operations to ensure accurate results. By understanding the order of operations and following the steps outlined above, we can evaluate expressions like $$(8-2x)^2+4$$ for $$x=3$$ with confidence.

Answer

The correct answer is A. Addition.

Additional Tips and Resources

For more information on the order of operations, check out the following resources:

Khan Academy: Order of Operations
Mathway: Order of Operations

Practice evaluating algebraic expressions with the following exercises:

Evaluate the expression $$(3x-2)^2+5$$ for $$x=2$$.
Evaluate the expression $$(x+4)^2-3$$ for $$x=1$$.

Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

In this article, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about evaluating algebraic expressions.

Q: What is the order of operations?

A: The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the order in which mathematical operations should be performed when there are multiple operations in an expression. The acronym PEMDAS is commonly used to remember the order of operations:

Parentheses: Evaluate expressions inside parentheses first.
Exponents: Evaluate any exponential expressions next.
Multiplication and Division: Evaluate multiplication and division operations from left to right.
Addition and Subtraction: Finally, evaluate any addition and subtraction operations from left to right.

Q: How do I evaluate expressions inside parentheses?

A: To evaluate expressions inside parentheses, simply substitute the value of x into the expression and simplify. For example, if we have the expression $$(3x-2)^2+5$$, we would substitute x=2 into the expression and simplify:

(3(2)-2)^2+5

=(6-2)^2+5

=(4)^2+5

=16+5

=21

Q: What is the difference between an exponent and a power?

A: An exponent and a power are often used interchangeably, but technically, an exponent is the number that is raised to a power. For example, in the expression $$2^3$$, 2 is the base and 3 is the exponent. The power is the result of raising the base to the exponent, which in this case is 8.

Q: How do I evaluate expressions with multiple operations?

A: To evaluate expressions with multiple operations, simply follow the order of operations. For example, if we have the expression $$3x^2+2x-5$$, we would follow the order of operations as follows:

Evaluate the exponent: $$3x^2$$
Multiply 3 by the result: $$9x^2$$
Add 2x: $$9x^2+2x$$
Subtract 5: $$9x^2+2x-5$$

Q: What is the difference between a variable and a constant?

A: A variable is a letter or symbol that represents a value that can change, while a constant is a value that does not change. For example, in the expression $$2x+5$$, x is a variable and 5 is a constant.

Q: How do I simplify expressions with variables and constants?

A: To simplify expressions with variables and constants, simply combine like terms. For example, if we have the expression $$2x+3x+5$$, we would combine the like terms as follows:

2x+3x=5x

5x+5=5(x+1)

Q: What is the final operation performed when evaluating an expression?

A: The final operation performed when evaluating an expression is always addition or subtraction. This is because the order of operations dictates that we evaluate all other operations before adding or subtracting.

Q: How do I evaluate expressions with negative numbers?

A: To evaluate expressions with negative numbers, simply follow the order of operations. For example, if we have the expression $$-3x^2+2x-5$$, we would follow the order of operations as follows:

Evaluate the exponent: $$-3x^2$$
Multiply -3 by the result: $$-9x^2$$
Add 2x: $$-9x^2+2x$$
Subtract 5: $$-9x^2+2x-5$$

Conclusion

In conclusion, evaluating algebraic expressions can be a challenging task, but by following the correct order of operations and practicing regularly, you can become proficient in no time. Remember to always substitute the value of x, evaluate expressions inside parentheses, simplify the expression, evaluate exponents, and finally add or subtract numbers. With practice and patience, you'll be evaluating algebraic expressions like a pro in no time!

Additional Tips and Resources

For more information on evaluating algebraic expressions, check out the following resources:

Khan Academy: Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
Mathway: Evaluating Algebraic Expressions

Practice evaluating algebraic expressions with the following exercises:

Evaluate the expression $$(3x-2)^2+5$$ for $$x=2$$.
Evaluate the expression $$(x+4)^2-3$$ for $$x=1$$.

Final Thoughts

Evaluating algebraic expressions is an essential skill in mathematics, and with practice and patience, you can become proficient in no time. Remember to always follow the order of operations and simplify expressions with variables and constants. With these tips and resources, you'll be evaluating algebraic expressions like a pro in no time!