What is the value of 3a^2 when a = 4?

Study for the GMAS 6th Grade Mathematics Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the value of 3a^2 when a = 4?

Explanation:
3a^2 means three times the square of a. First square a, since exponents come before multiplication. With a = 4, a^2 = 4^2 = 16. Then multiply by 3: 3 × 16 = 48. This shows why the value is 48. It’s different from squaring the whole 3a, which would give (3a)^2 = (12)^2 = 144, a noticeably larger result.

3a^2 means three times the square of a. First square a, since exponents come before multiplication. With a = 4, a^2 = 4^2 = 16. Then multiply by 3: 3 × 16 = 48. This shows why the value is 48. It’s different from squaring the whole 3a, which would give (3a)^2 = (12)^2 = 144, a noticeably larger result.

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