Question

Julie started to solve the exponential expression (–2)3. (–2)3 = –2 ⋅ –2 ⋅ –2 = ? Which of these explains why Julie gets a negative number for her final answer? Question 25 options: The exponent 3 is an odd number. The base –2 is an even number. The base –2 is a negative number. The exponent 3 is a positive number.

Answer 1

The exponent 3 is an odd number.

Explanation:

Since the exponent (3) is an odd number, the answer will be negative. Answer: –8

Sidenote: I got this answer correct on the test :)))

Answer 2

The base –2 is a negative number

Explanation:

We need to solve the exponential expression (–2)³.

(–2)³ = -2×-2×-2

= -8

The final answer is -8. It is negative. It is because the base i.e. -2 is an even number. If the base is negative and the power is odd, the answer will be a negative number. Here, base is -2, power is 3. Hence, the correct option is (c) "The base –2 is a negative number".