Question

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

Answer 1

Answer:

Step-by-step 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.