The expression "y^2" represents the square of a variable, typically denoted as y. This means that y^2 is the result of multiplying y by itself. For example, if y equals 3, then y^2 equals 9, since 3 times 3 is 9. Squaring a number always results in a non-negative value. In mathematics, squaring is a fundamental operation used in various fields, including algebra and geometry. The graph of the equation y = x^2 forms a parabola, which opens upwards. This shape is important in many applications, such as physics and engineering, where it can represent trajectories and other phenomena.