Evaluate (1/5)^-2

Problem

(1/5)(−2)

Solution

1. Apply the negative exponent rule, which states that a(−n)=1/(an) or (a/b)(−n)=(b/a)n

2. Invert the fraction to change the sign of the exponent from negative to positive.

(1/5)(−2)=(5/1)2

3. Simplify the base by dividing 5 by 1.

(5/1)2=5

4. Evaluate the power by multiplying the base by itself.

5=25

Final Answer

(1/5)(−2)=25

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