Final answer:
To simplify the expression (a-2.87)^2, you can use the FOIL method to expand the binomial and then simplify the resulting expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the question, you are asked to evaluate the expression (a-2.87)^2. To simplify this expression, you need to square the binomial (a-2.87).
In order to do this, you can use the FOIL method, which stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last. First, multiply the first terms, which gives you (a*a=a^2). Outer, multiply the outer terms, which gives you (a*-2.87=-2.87a).
Inner, multiply the inner terms, which gives you (-2.87*a=-2.87a).
Last, multiply the last terms, which gives you (-2.87*-2.87=8.2369).
Now, combine the results: a^2-2.87a-2.87a+8.2369.
Finally, simplify the expression: a^2-5.74a+8.2369.