SOLUTION: Theme: 2 Sets of Parenthesis Nested within Each Other My question: Why does answer, "36" move from (-36) when removed from parenthesis as the last operation of this solution?

Question 209380: Theme: 2 Sets of Parenthesis Nested within Each Other
My question: Why does answer, "36" move from (-36) when removed from parenthesis as the last operation of this solution? I need simple but rule based reference of where to study up on how to manipulate parentheses within mathematical/algebraic rules. Thank you.
My solution follows:
(9 + 3 - 4 * ( 8 + ( - 2 ) ^2) )
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Step 1: Find 1st set of inner parenthesis ( - 2 ); No operation indicated;
Step 2: Proceed to next set of inner parenthesis: ( 8 + ( - 2 ) ^ 2 ). Process. 2 ^ 2 = 4;
( 8 + ( 4) ) = ( 12 ). Rewrite equation: ( 9 + 3 - 4 * (12) )
Step 3: All parenthesis and powers are resolved. Now proceed to Multiply, Divide; then Add, Subtract.
So, 4 * 12 = 48; Rewrite: ( 9 + 3 - 48 ). Solve: ( 12 - 48 ) = ( -36 ). Remove parenthesis: A: 36
Answer by rfer(16322) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the-2^2 becomes a positive then you multiply by the -4 so your final answer is negative. remember the order of operations
work everything to the right of the multiplication sign first in this case.
Then multiply by -4, last do the 9+3
when you multiply by the 4 it is a -4 not positive
-2^2=+4
+4+8=12
12*-4=-48
9+3-48=-36
when you add algebreticly you add or subtract following the signs and the answer gets the sign of the biggest number
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