Asked by Mimmy

if -2*-2 is 4 why does -2 squared -4
Answered by Anonymous
- (2)^2 = 4 because it's like (-1) x (2)^2
Answered by Ms. Sue
Then why does the Google calculator show this?

http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS353&q=-2%5E2+%3D+

Answered by Reiny
It is very important to note the difference between
-2^2 and (-2)^2

because of the order of operation, exponents have to be done first, so
-2^2 means -(2x2) = -4

but (-2)^2 = (-2)(-2) = +4

think of algebra,
when you see -2x^2, who is squared ?
Only the x.
in the same way -x^2 really means
-1(x)^2
so -2^2 really means (-1)(2)^2 = -4
Answered by Ms. Sue
Thank you, Reiny. I've been puzzling this problem all evening.

Answered by Reiny
You are so welcome.
There are no AI answers yet. The ability to request AI answers is coming soon!