1. **State the problem:** We are given the function $f(x) = 9x^2 - 4$ and need to find the value of $f(-2)$. 2. **Recall the formula:** The function is defined as $f(x) = 9x^2 - 4$. 3. **Substitute $x = -2$ into the function:** $$f(-2) = 9(-2)^2 - 4$$ 4. **Calculate the square:** $$(-2)^2 = 4$$ 5. **Multiply by 9:** $$9 \times 4 = 36$$ 6. **Subtract 4:** $$36 - 4 = 32$$ 7. **Final answer:** $$f(-2) = 32$$ This means when $x = -2$, the function value is 32.