What is 3^2 + 4^2?

To solve for (3^2 + 4^2), we start by calculating each term separately.

First, we find (3^2): [

3^2 = 3 \times 3 = 9 ]

Next, we calculate (4^2): [ 4^2 = 4 \times 4 = 16 ]

Now, we add the two results together: [ 9 + 16 = 25 ]

Therefore, the correct answer is 25. This result comes from accurately squaring each number and then performing the addition, which is essential in understanding how exponents work in conjunction with basic arithmetic operations. This serves as a fundamental concept in mathematics, where combining different operations follows established rules.