Curiosity about HP 50 and x^2 vs x^y

[Johnh]

Just from the user's perspective, for most people, x^2 is used much more often than x^y, so more direct access to it is valuable. That being said, with x^2 as a shifted function, and y^x as a primary function on a button, both may be two key strokes. (eg on a 15c and many others, it's g, x^2, compared to 2, y^x)