Explain in details the correct solution:

Question

Simplify the expression.
(–3)^4

The answer is 81 but how would I explain the correct solution?

Answer 1

-3 * -3 = 9
9 * -3 = -27
-27 * -3 = 81

Answer 2

(-3)^4 = (-3)^2*(-3)^2 = 9 * 9 = 81.

Or (-3)^4 = -3 * -3 * -3 * -3 = 81.