Which expression is equivlent to (3^2)^-2?

a) -81
b) -12
c) 1/81
d) 1/12

C) 1/81

Step-by-step explanation:

According to PEMDAS, you need to work on Parentheses first, so you should square 3.

3×3 = 9

A rule of exponents is that you can't have negative exponents, and if they show up you need to flip the side the exponent is at. (If it were at the denominator it would then have to be at the numerator)

Since the negative exponent was at (what is understood as) the numerator, you have to place it at the denominator.

Your equation should now be

1/ 9^2

Square 9

And the answer should be

1/81