Raising a number to a power means multiplying that number by itself a certain number of times. In the case of 3 to the 2nd power (written as 32), we are multiplying the number 3 by itself.
To break it down:
- 3 to the 2nd Power: This means we perform the calculation 3 × 3.
- Step-by-Step Calculation:
- First, take the number 3.
- Next, multiply 3 by itself: 3 × 3 = 9.
Therefore, the result of 3 to the 2nd power is 9. This concept is a fundamental aspect of arithmetic and serves as a building block for more advanced mathematical operations.