SOLUTION: how do i evaluate the numerical expression? {(-2)^-1}^-3 first i multiply my exponents and get 3 do i need to put the problem over 1 {1/2}^-3? i don't know how to so

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: how do i evaluate the numerical expression? {(-2)^-1}^-3 first i multiply my exponents and get 3 do i need to put the problem over 1 {1/2}^-3? i don't know how to so      Log On


   

Question 404633: how do i evaluate the numerical expression? {(-2)^-1}^-3
first i multiply my exponents and get 3
do i need to put the problem over 1 {1/2}^-3?
i don't know how to solve from there either
Answer by jsmallt9(3758) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
%28%28-2%29%5E%28-1%29%29%5E%28-3%29
Your first step is correct. Start by multiplying the exponents:
%28-2%29%5E3
There is no reason to find any reciprocals because your negative exponents are gone. The rest is pretty simple. Just cube -2:
%28-2%29%5E3+=+%28-2%29%2A%28-2%29%2A%28-2%29+=+-8