(5ab%5E3).jpeg "(-4a^2b)(5ab^3)")
Simplifying Expressions with Exponents: (-4a²b)(5ab³)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the expression **(-4a²b)(5ab³) **.
Understanding the Basics
When multiplying expressions with exponents, we apply the following rules:
-
Product of Powers: When multiplying powers with the same base, we add the exponents.
- Example: x² * x³ = x⁵
-
Coefficient Multiplication: We multiply the coefficients as we would any regular numbers.
Simplifying the Expression
- Multiply the coefficients: -4 * 5 = -20
- Combine 'a' terms: a² * a = a³ (Remember: a² = a * a)
- Combine 'b' terms: b * b³ = b⁴
The Final Result
By combining these steps, we arrive at the simplified expression:
(-4a²b)(5ab³) = -20a³b⁴
Key Takeaways
- Remember the rules for multiplying exponents.
- Pay attention to the signs of the coefficients.
- Simplify the expression by combining like terms.
This process can be applied to a wide range of expressions involving exponents. With practice, you'll become proficient in simplifying expressions like this one.