What is the value of 3² + 4²?

To solve the expression 3² + 4², you first calculate each square individually.

Starting with 3², you multiply 3 by itself, which equals 9. Next, for 4², you multiply 4 by itself, resulting in 16.

Now, you add these two results together:

9 (from 3²) + 16 (from 4²) equals 25.

Thus, the value of 3² + 4² is indeed 25. This matches the provided answer. Understanding this basic yet crucial aspect of arithmetic operations, particularly the order of operations and the implementation of exponents, is fundamental in progressing through more complex mathematical concepts.