(-2b^-2c^3)^3

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(-2b^-2c^3)^3

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

  1. 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

  2. Simplify each term:

    • (-2)^3 = -8
    • (b^-2)^3 = b^(-2*3) = b^-6
    • (c^3)^3 = c^(3*3) = c^9
  3. Combine the simplified terms: -8 * b^-6 * c^9

  4. Apply the negative exponent rule: -8 * (1/b^6) * c^9

  5. 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.