Evaluate (-5)^4

Problem

(−5)4

Solution

1. Identify the base and the exponent in the expression. The base is −5 and the exponent is 4

2. Expand the expression by multiplying the base by itself the number of times indicated by the exponent.

(−5)⋅(−5)⋅(−5)⋅(−5)

3. Multiply the first two factors. Since a negative times a negative is a positive, (−5)⋅(−5)=25

25⋅(−5)⋅(−5)

4. Multiply the next factor. A positive times a negative is a negative, so 25⋅(−5)=−125

−125⋅(−5)

5. Calculate the final product. A negative times a negative is a positive, so −125⋅(−5)=625

Final Answer

(−5)4=625

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