\(5[3-(7-8)]\) simplifies to 20
An equation must have an equal sign, which \(5[3-(7-8)]\) lacks, so \(5[3-(7-8)]\) is an expression—not an equation.
Let's evaluate this expression step by step:
\(5[3-(7-8)]\) | This is the original expression. First, simplify what is in the inner parentheses. |
\(5[3-(-1)]\) | Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding a positive |
\(5[3+1]\) | Simplify 3+1 |
\(5[4]\) | Brackets are another way to represent parentheses. A number without an operation directly beside parentheses is always multiplication |
\(5*4\) | Simplify 5*4 |
\(20\) | |