Question

Determine the values of m in the equation m2 = 16.

answers are
m = ±4
m = 4
m = ±8
m = 8

Answer 1

I'll assume m2 is m^2

m = ±4

Explanation:

1. m = ±4 m^2 = 16 YES. Both -4 and 4, when squared, are equal to 16

2. m = 4 This also works, but it doiesn't allow for the possibility that m is a -4

3. m = ±8 8^2 = 64 and (-8)^2 = 64 Don't work.

4. m = 8 8^2 = 64 Doesn't work.