Algebra Practice Test 2026 – The Complete Guide to Mastering Your Exam Success!

To determine the product of \(a^2\) and its reciprocal \(a^{-2}\), we first need to identify the reciprocal of \(a^2\). The reciprocal of \(a^2\) is \(1/a^2\), which can also be expressed as \(a^{-2}\).

When multiplying \(a^2\) by its reciprocal \(a^{-2}\), we can use the laws of exponents. Specifically, when we multiply two expressions with the same base, we add their exponents. Therefore:

\[

a^2 \cdot a^{-2} = a^{2 + (-2)} = a^{0}.

\]

According to the properties of exponents, any base raised to the power of 0 equals 1, as long as the base is not zero. Thus, \(a^0 = 1\).

Therefore, the expression that correctly represents the multiplication of \(a^2\) and its reciprocal \(a^{-2}\) is indeed equal to 1.