Simplifying the Expression (-2b^-2c^3)^3
This article will walk you through the steps involved in simplifying the expression (-2b^-2c^3)^3.
Understanding the Rules
To simplify this expression, we need to understand the following rules of exponents:
- Product of powers: (x^m)^n = x^(m*n)
- Negative exponents: x^-n = 1/x^n
Step-by-Step Simplification
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Distribute the exponent: Applying the product of powers rule, we multiply the exponent outside the parentheses (3) with each exponent inside the parentheses: (-2)^3 * (b^-2)^3 * (c^3)^3
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Simplify each term:
- (-2)^3 = -8
- (b^-2)^3 = b^(-2*3) = b^-6
- (c^3)^3 = c^(3*3) = c^9
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Combine the simplified terms: -8 * b^-6 * c^9
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Apply the negative exponent rule: -8 * (1/b^6) * c^9
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Final Simplified Expression: -8c^9/b^6
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (-2b^-2c^3)^3 is -8c^9/b^6. By understanding and applying the rules of exponents, we can successfully simplify complex expressions like this one.