if -2*-2 is 4 why does -2 squared -4

Answer 1

- (2)^2 = 4 because it's like (-1) x (2)^2

Answer 2

Then why does the Google calculator show this?

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

Answer 3

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

Answer 4

Thank you, Reiny. I've been puzzling this problem all evening.

Answer 5

You are so welcome.