Evaluate (-2)^-2

Problem

(−2)(−2)

Solution

1. Identify the negative exponent rule, which states that a(−n)=1/(an) for any non-zero base a

2. Apply the rule to the expression by moving the base to the denominator and changing the sign of the exponent.

(−2)(−2)=1/((−2)2)

3. Evaluate the power in the denominator by multiplying the base by itself.

(−2)2=(−2)⋅(−2)

(−2)2=4

4. Simplify the fraction to find the final numerical value.

1/4=0.25

Final Answer

(−2)(−2)=1/4

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