Evaluate (-4)^-2

Problem

(−4)(−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.

(−4)(−2)=1/((−4)2)

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

(−4)2=(−4)⋅(−4)

(−4)2=16

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

1/16

Final Answer

(−4)(−2)=1/16

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