2x^2...do I square the x and the 2 or just the x?

Question

In 2x^2......If 3/4 replaces x, do I double the 3/4 and the 2 or just the 3/4? I think if there were partenthesis .....oh please help

Answer 1

you just square the x. you only square the 2 when its written (2x)^2

Answer 2

Just the x. Exponentiation is the most tightly binding of the operators. So, 2(3/4)^2 = 2(9/16) = 9/8.

Answer 3

2x^2 = 2*x^2 = 2* ((3/4)^2) = 2*(9/16) = 9/8

Just the x is squared.

Try making up a simple example.

2x^2 - 2 = 0

x = +1, -1