Simplifying the Expression (2x^-2y^3/3xy^-4)^4
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the expression (2x^-2y^3/3xy^-4)^4.
Understanding the Rules
Before we begin, let's refresh our memory on some key exponent rules:
- Product of powers: x^m * x^n = x^(m+n)
- Quotient of powers: x^m / x^n = x^(m-n)
- Power of a product: (xy)^n = x^n * y^n
- Power of a quotient: (x/y)^n = x^n / y^n
- Negative exponent: x^-n = 1/x^n
Step-by-Step Simplification
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Apply the power of a quotient rule:
(2x^-2y^3/3xy^-4)^4 = (2^4 * x^-8 * y^12) / (3^4 * x^4 * y^-16)
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Simplify the coefficients:
= (16x^-8y^12) / (81x^4y^-16)
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Apply the quotient of powers rule for x and y:
= (16/81) * x^(-8-4) * y^(12+16)
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Simplify the exponents:
= (16/81) * x^-12 * y^28
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Apply the negative exponent rule to x:
= (16/81) * (1/x^12) * y^28
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Combine the terms:
= 16y^28 / (81x^12)
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified expression of (2x^-2y^3/3xy^-4)^4 is 16y^28 / (81x^12). By applying the rules of exponents and simplifying each step, we can arrive at a more concise and understandable form.