(7 + 2)^2 − 2^3 equals? I got 73.

looks good to me

7+2 = 9

9^2 = 81
2^3 = 8
81-8 = 73
I agree.

To solve this equation, you need to follow the order of operations (also known as PEMDAS), which stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication/division (from left to right), and addition/subtraction (from left to right).

Let's break down the equation step by step:

1. Start with the parentheses: (7 + 2) = 9.
- The expression becomes: 9^2 - 2^3.

2. Next, solve the exponents: 9^2 = 81 and 2^3 = 8.
- The expression becomes: 81 - 8.

3. Finally, perform the subtraction: 81 - 8 = 73.

Therefore, the correct answer is 73, which matches the result you obtained. Well done!