Evaluate the equation (–2) + (4)2 * (–6)

Concept

The BODMAS rule fixes the order in which arithmetic operations execute: expressions inside Brackets are resolved first, then Orders (powers/exponents), followed by Division and Multiplication (left to right), and finally Addition and Subtraction (left to right). Exponentiation always resolves before multiplication, and multiplication always resolves before addition or subtraction.

Application

1. Evaluate the exponent first: (4)2 = 16, so the expression becomes (–2) + 16 * (–6).

2. Perform the multiplication before the addition: 16 * (–6) = –96, giving (–2) + (–96).

3. Add the two signed numbers: (–2) + (–96) = –98.

Cross-check

Confirm independently by combining the magnitudes directly: 16 * (–6) = –96, and (–2) + (–96) is the same as –(2 + 96) = –98 — the two routes agree.

Hence, the value of the expression (–2) + (4)2 * (–6) is –98.