Basic Algebra Question Confusion (Parenthesis or Exponents First)

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So I had a discussion with my friend about whether we do parenthesis or exponents first. Here's the question:

$$2(5)^2.$$

I say the answers 50 because you do the exponent first.

My friend says the answer is a hundred because you distribute the two first and then the exponent.

Who's right?

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3 Answers

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There is a hierarchy. Brackets, Exponents.. *, / + - Left to Right and you are right.

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The answer is $50$, even without parenthesis ($2\times5^2=50$). Since you do the exponent first, then multiplication (and then sum, if it exists).

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Using the order of operation (PEMDAS):

Parentheses first

Exponents (ie Powers and Square Roots, etc.)

Multiplication and Division (left-to-right)

Addition and Subtraction (left-to-right)

You are right the answer is 50.

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