%5E-1-without-exponent.jpeg "(-4)^-1 Without Exponent")
Understanding (-4)^-1
(-4)^-1 is a mathematical expression involving a negative base and a negative exponent. Let's break down how to solve this without using exponents:
The Rules of Exponents
Remember the key rule: x^-n = 1/x^n. This means any number raised to a negative power is equal to its reciprocal raised to the positive power.
Applying the Rule
Following the rule, we can rewrite (-4)^-1 as:
1/(-4)^1
Since anything raised to the power of 1 is itself, we simplify further:
1/(-4)
Final Result
Therefore, (-4)^-1 is equivalent to -1/4.