Evaluate: (5² - 3²)

To evaluate the expression (5² - 3²), we start by calculating the squares of the numbers involved.

First, compute 5²:

5² = 5 × 5 = 25.

Next, compute 3²:

3² = 3 × 3 = 9.

Now, subtract the square of 3 from the square of 5:

25 - 9 = 16.

Thus, the result of the expression (5² - 3²) is 16. This confirms that the correct answer is indeed 16. The reasoning follows the order of operations and basic arithmetic principles, applying the rule for evaluating exponents followed by subtraction.