Simplifying (-5x^2y^-1)^4
In this article, we will simplify the expression (-5x^2y^-1)^4.
Understanding the Properties
To simplify this expression, we need to understand the following properties of exponents:
- Product of powers: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
- Power of a product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Negative exponent: a^-n = 1/a^n
Applying the Properties
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Apply the power of a product property: (-5x^2y^-1)^4 = (-5)^4 * (x^2)^4 * (y^-1)^4
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Apply the product of powers property: (-5)^4 * (x^2)^4 * (y^-1)^4 = 625 * x^(24) * y^(-14)
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Simplify the exponents: 625 * x^(24) * y^(-14) = 625x^8y^-4
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Apply the negative exponent property: 625x^8y^-4 = 625x^8 / y^4
Final Result
Therefore, the simplified form of (-5x^2y^-1)^4 is 625x^8/y^4.