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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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