-10^2 (OT)

[David Squance]

>Maybe the larger question is:  Is there a standard order for operator
>precedence, and if so why so much variation?

There is from a mathematician's point of view.  What happened to all you
guys' high school math?
Weren't you all taught BODMAS (or BEDMAS)?  You can't be any older than I
am, so your memory shouldn't be the issue.  Of course I taught math for
nearly 30 years.  Helps keep the memory fresh.  I agree with Tom.  -10^2
should always give you -100.  Don't expect MS to get it right.
Dave