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Which is the correct reason why (x+y)^2 is not equal to x^2+y^2

1 Answer

6 votes

Answer:

Explanation:

It would be easier to just show you.

Because we're using variables, I'm going to plug in a random set of numbers to stand for x and y.

(x+y)^2

(2+4)^2=36

vs.

x^2+y^2

2^2+4^2=20

The difference is because, following the order of operations, in the first situation you must first take care of what is in the parenthesis, which means you add x and y together-then you multiply that combined number by the 2nd power. Whereas in the second situation, you multiply x and y by the 2nd power separately, and then add the product of that together. So opposite order. In the first situation you add, then multiply. In the second, you multiply then add.

User Natchy
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