Evaluate (-5)^-1

Problem

(−5)(−1)

Solution

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

2. Apply the rule to the expression by moving the base (−5) to the denominator and changing the exponent to positive 1

(−5)(−1)=1/((−5)1)

3. Simplify the denominator, noting that any number raised to the power of 1 is itself.

1/((−5)1)=1/(−5)

4. Rewrite the fraction in standard form by placing the negative sign in front of the fraction.

1/(−5)=−1/5

Final Answer

(−5)(−1)=−1/5

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