Simplifying the Expression (-2u^-2v^2)^2 * -2v^-5
This problem involves simplifying an expression with exponents. We will use the rules of exponents to achieve this.
Understanding the Rules of Exponents
- Product of Powers: When multiplying powers with the same base, add the exponents. (x^m * x^n = x^(m+n))
- Power of a Product: (xy)^n = x^n * y^n
- Power of a Power: (x^m)^n = x^(m*n)
- Negative Exponent: x^-n = 1/x^n
Applying the Rules
Let's simplify the expression step by step:
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Simplify the square: (-2u^-2v^2)^2 = (-2)^2 * (u^-2)^2 * (v^2)^2 = 4u^-4v^4
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Combine the terms: 4u^-4v^4 * -2v^-5 = -8u^-4 * v^(4-5)
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Simplify the exponent: -8u^-4 * v^-1
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Rewrite with positive exponents: -8u^-4 * v^-1 = -8 / (u^4 * v)
Final Result
The simplified form of the expression (-2u^-2v^2)^2 * -2v^-5 is -8 / (u^4 * v).