Algebra Practice Test

What is the value of (-2)^-2?

1. 0

2. 1

3. 2

4. -1

The correct answer is: 1

To find the value of (-2)^-2, it's important to understand the principle of negative exponents. A negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the opposite positive exponent. In this case, (-2)^-2 can be rewritten as 1/((-2)^2). Next, we compute (-2)^2, which means multiplying -2 by itself. This results in 4 because a negative number multiplied by itself always yields a positive result. Now rewriting the expression gives us 1/(4), which simplifies to 1/4. However, the answer choice provided indicates a thought process that misses this simplification. In the context of the provided answer, it suggests that (-2)^-2 equals 1, which is not the case in terms of basic arithmetic; instead, the correct calculation leads us to 1/4 indicating perhaps confusion in the earlier thought or oversight in review. It's crucial when dealing with negative exponents to remember that you are dealing with the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive exponent rather than interpreting the final outcome directly in the context of the negative exponent.