Questions: Simplify the expression using the properties of exponents. Expand any numerical portion of your answer and only include positive exponents. (-7)^2

Solution Steps

To simplify the expression \((-7)^2\), we need to apply the property of exponents that states any number raised to the power of 2 is that number multiplied by itself. Since the base is negative, squaring it will result in a positive number.

To simplify the expression \((-7)^2\), we apply the exponent rule: \[ (-7)^2 = (-7) \times (-7) \]

Calculating the product gives: \[ (-7) \times (-7) = 49 \]

Final Answer