Simplifying Expressions: (2a²b)(4ab²)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the expression (2a²b)(4ab²).
Understanding the Basics
- Variables and Coefficients: The expression consists of variables (a and b) and coefficients (2 and 4).
- Exponents: Each variable has an exponent associated with it. For example, 'a²' means 'a multiplied by itself twice' (a * a).
Simplifying the Expression
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Rearrange the terms:
The commutative property of multiplication allows us to rearrange the terms. (2a²b)(4ab²) = 2 * 4 * a² * a * b * b² -
Combine coefficients:
Multiply the coefficients together. 2 * 4 = 8 -
Combine variables with the same base: When multiplying variables with the same base, add their exponents. a² * a = a^(2+1) = a³ b * b² = b^(1+2) = b³
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Final simplified expression: Putting it all together, we get: 8a³b³