To identify the base of the exponential expression in the given problem [tex]$-5^2$[/tex], let's go through a detailed, step-by-step solution:
1. Understand the Exponential Expression: An exponential expression consists of two parts: a base and an exponent. The base is the number that is being multiplied by itself, and the exponent indicates how many times the base is used as a factor in the multiplication.
2. Analyze the Given Expression:
- The given expression is [tex]$-5^2$[/tex].
- Here, the exponent is 2, which clearly indicates that something is being squared.
3. Clarify Interpretation:
- It is important to note the placement of the negative sign. In mathematical notation, [tex]$-5^2$[/tex] is usually interpreted as the negative of [tex]$5^2$[/tex]; this means we first calculate [tex]$5^2$[/tex] and then apply the negative sign to the result.
- [tex]$5^2$[/tex] means [tex]$5 \times 5$[/tex], which equals [tex]$25$[/tex].
- Applying the negative sign to this result, we get [tex]$-25$[/tex].
4. Identify the Base:
- Since the exponent is applied to [tex]$5$[/tex] and not the negative sign (the negative sign is applied after the exponentiation), the base of the exponential expression [tex]$-5^2$[/tex] is [tex]$5$[/tex].
Therefore, the base of the exponential expression [tex]$-5^2$[/tex] is [tex]$\boxed{5}$[/tex].
