Evaluate -2^-3

Problem

−2^(−3)

Solution

1. Identify the order of operations, noting that the exponent applies only to the base 2 not to the negative sign.

2. Apply the negative exponent rule, which states that a^(−n)=1/(a^n)

2^(−3)=1/2^3

3. Calculate the value of the denominator by cubing the base.

2^3=8

4. Substitute the value back into the expression and include the leading negative sign.

−1/8

Final Answer

−2^(−3)=−1/8

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