Evaluate (-9)^-1

Problem

(−9)(−1)

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 (−9) to the denominator and changing the exponent from −1 to 1

(−9)(−1)=1/((−9)1)

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

1/((−9)1)=1/(−9)

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

1/(−9)=−1/9

Final Answer

(−9)(−1)=−1/9

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