The expression $-4^2$ can be interpreted in two different ways depending on the use of parentheses, which influences the order of operations:

1. Without parentheses: $-4^2$

   • In this case, the exponentiation takes precedence over the negative sign. Therefore, you first calculate $4^2 = 16$, and then apply the negative sign: $-16$.

2. With parentheses: $(-4)^2$

   • If the expression were written with parentheses as $(-4)^2$, the negative sign would be included inside the exponentiation. This would result in: $(-4) \times (-4) = 16$.

Since there are no parentheses, the correct interpretation for $-4^2$ is $-16$.

Do you want more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. What is the value of $(-3)^2$?
2. How would you simplify $5 - 3^2$?
3. What is the difference between $-2^3$ and $(-2)^3$?
4. How do parentheses affect the order of operations in mathematical expressions?
5. How do you evaluate expressions with multiple exponents and negative numbers?

Tip: Always remember the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) to correctly evaluate expressions.