The expression "-5 to the power of 2" can be interpreted in two ways depending on how it's written:

1. $(-5)^2$: This means the base is $-5$, and you're squaring it. So, you multiply $-5$ by $-5$: $(-5)^2 = (-5) \times (-5) = 25$

2. $-5^2$: This means the negative sign is outside the exponentiation. So, you're squaring 5 and then applying the negative sign: $-5^2 = -(5 \times 5) = -25$

Let me know if you would like any clarifications or details on this!

Here are five related questions:

1. What is the square of any negative number?
2. How do parentheses affect exponentiation?
3. What is the cube of $-5$?
4. How does order of operations apply to powers and negatives?
5. What is the power of zero, $(a^0)$, for any number $a$?

Tip: Parentheses play a crucial role in math, especially in expressions with exponents and negative numbers. Always watch for them!