Is there a difference between (x)^3 vs x^3?

Question

For example, is (-2)^3 the same as -2^3?

And I think it is different if it is -(2)^3, is that correct?

Answer 1

(x)^3 is exactly the same as x^3

(-2)^3 = (-2)(-2)(-2) = -8
-2^3 = -(2)^3 = -(2*2*2) = -8
works ok for odd powers, but not for even ones.

Answer 2

Steve,

Just to make sure I understand, could you check if this is correct..

(-2)^4 = 16
-(2)^4 = -16

Answer 3

correct. As is -2^4 = -16