Evaluate (-1)^3

Problem

(−1)3

Solution

1. Identify the base and the exponent of the expression. The base is −1 and the exponent is 3

2. Expand the power by writing the base as a factor the number of times indicated by the exponent.

(−1)3=(−1)⋅(−1)⋅(−1)

3. Multiply the first two factors. Since a negative times a negative is a positive, (−1)⋅(−1)=1

1⋅(−1)

4. Multiply the result by the final factor. Since a positive times a negative is a negative, 1⋅(−1)=−1

Final Answer

(−1)3=−1

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