Simplifying the Expression (-2x^4)^3(-2x^2)^2
This article will walk through the process of simplifying the expression (-2x^4)^3(-2x^2)^2.
Understanding the Properties
To simplify this expression, we need to understand a couple of key properties of exponents:
- Power of a product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Power of a power: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
Applying the Properties
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Distribute the exponents:
- (-2x^4)^3 = (-2)^3 * (x^4)^3
- (-2x^2)^2 = (-2)^2 * (x^2)^2
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Simplify using the power of a power rule:
- (-2)^3 * (x^4)^3 = -8 * x^(4*3) = -8x^12
- (-2)^2 * (x^2)^2 = 4 * x^(2*2) = 4x^4
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Multiply the simplified terms:
- -8x^12 * 4x^4 = -32x^(12+4) = -32x^16
Final Result
Therefore, the simplified expression is -32x^16.