To simplify the expression $(-x^2)(2x^3 + 3x^2 - 2x + 5)$, you need to distribute $-x^2$ to each term inside the parentheses.

Step-by-step distribution:

1. Multiply $-x^2$ by $2x^3$: $(-x^2)(2x^3) = -2x^5$

2. Multiply $-x^2$ by $3x^2$: $(-x^2)(3x^2) = -3x^4$

3. Multiply $-x^2$ by $-2x$: $(-x^2)(-2x) = 2x^3$

4. Multiply $-x^2$ by $5$: $(-x^2)(5) = -5x^2$

Final result:

$-2x^5 - 3x^4 + 2x^3 - 5x^2$

Let me know if you'd like further clarification or have any questions!

Here are some follow-up questions to explore:

1. What happens if we factor out common terms from this expression?
2. How can you identify the degree of a polynomial from its terms?
3. Can you evaluate the expression at $x = 1$?
4. How would the result change if you multiplied by $x^2$ instead of $-x^2$?
5. What is the derivative of this polynomial?

Tip: When distributing, always carefully multiply each term, and remember to adjust the signs based on the signs in the terms you're multiplying!