Question

Which of the following is equal to the expression below? (6–8)4

Answer 1

The expression (6–8)4 equals 16, which is computed by subtracting 8 from 6 to get -2, and then raising -2 to the fourth power.

Step-by-step explanation:

The expression in question is (6–8)4. To find the value of this expression, we first perform the operation within the parentheses, and then apply the exponent. Subtracting 8 from 6 gives us -2, and then raising -2 to the fourth power, which means multiplying -2 by itself four times, results in a positive 16. Therefore, the expression is equal to 16.

This exercise demonstrates the importance of following the order of operations and gives practice in simplifying expressions involving negative numbers and integer powers. It's also a good example of how mathematical rules can help us perform operations in our head, by recognizing patterns like even powers of negative numbers resulting in positive values.

Answer 2

The answer is -8.

Following the order of operations, you do the part in the parentheses first: (6 - 8) = -2

Then, multiply that by 4: (-2)4 = -8