volume_mute
Comparing (-5)^2 and -5^2
publish date: 2026/05/04 20:29:50.565401 UTC
volume_mute
Which statement correctly describes the difference between \((-5)^2\) and \(-5^2\)?
Correct Answer
\((-5)^2 = 25\) and \(-5^2 = -25\)
Explanation
In \((-5)^2\), the parentheses make \(-5\) the base, so \((-5)(-5) = 25\). In \(-5^2\), the base is \(5\) (no parentheses), so it equals \(-(5 \cdot 5) = -25\).
Reference
go-math-science.com