Question

1. the non-standard operation ( a # b ) is defined as ( a # b = (a + b)^2 - b ). evaluate ( (-3) # (-1) ).

a. ( -3 )
b. ( -1 )
c. ( 15 )
d. ( 17 )

Explanation:

Step1: Identify a and b

Here, \( a = -3 \) and \( b = -1 \). Substitute into the operation \( a\#b=(a + b)^2 - b \).

Step2: Calculate \( a + b \)

\( a + b = -3 + (-1) = -4 \).

Step3: Square the result

\( (-4)^2 = 16 \).

Step4: Subtract b

Subtract \( b = -1 \) from 16: \( 16 - (-1) = 16 + 1 = 17 \).

Answer:

D. 17