Simplifying Expressions with Exponents
This article will walk through the process of simplifying the expression (25^1/2 x^5)(4x^-6).
Understanding the Properties of Exponents
Before we begin simplifying, let's recall some key properties of exponents:
- Product of Powers: When multiplying powers with the same base, you add the exponents.
- x^m * x^n = x^(m+n)
- Power of a Power: When raising a power to another power, you multiply the exponents.
- (x^m)^n = x^(m*n)
- Negative Exponent: A negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive version of the exponent.
- x^-n = 1/x^n
Simplifying the Expression
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Simplify the numerical terms:
- 25^(1/2) = 5 (The square root of 25 is 5)
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Apply the product of powers rule:
- x^5 * x^-6 = x^(5-6) = x^-1
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Combine the simplified terms:
- (5 * x^-1)(4)
- 20x^-1
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Apply the negative exponent rule:
- 20x^-1 = 20/x
Final Result
The simplified expression is 20/x.