In technical and financial calculations, the placement of parentheses determines the base of an exponent. Match each algebraic expression with its simplified numerical value.

An inventory analyst is auditing a spreadsheet formula that uses exponents to model item decay over time. The formula contains the expression $-3^4$. According to standard mathematical rules for order of operations, what is the correct evaluation of this expression, and what is its base?

A data entry specialist is auditing a spreadsheet that includes the mathematical expression $(-3)^4$. According to the order of operations and the rules for parentheses, the simplified numerical result of this expression is ____.

A technician is auditing a spreadsheet formula that contains the expression $-3^4$. True or False: Because the exponent 4 is an even number, the simplified numerical result of this expression will be a positive value.

Differentiating Exponential Bases in Spreadsheet Formulas

Explaining Exponent Rules in Financial Spreadsheets

An operations assistant is auditing a spreadsheet formula that contains the mathematical expression $-3^4$ to ensure correct calculations. To verify that the spreadsheet's calculation engine evaluates this expression according to standard mathematical order of operations, place the steps of the evaluation process in the correct order from first to last.