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!

Learn how to solve -5 to the power of 2 with a detailed explanation of two possible interpretations: squaring a negative number with parentheses and without. This covers exponentiation and order of operations, suitable for students in Grades 6-8.

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