Simplifying (2x^4)^-3
This expression involves both exponents and parentheses, so we need to apply the rules of exponents in the correct order. Here's how we simplify it:
Understanding the Rules
- Power of a Product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Power of a Power: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
- Negative Exponent: a^-n = 1/a^n
Step-by-Step Simplification
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Apply the Power of a Product rule: (2x^4)^-3 = 2^-3 * (x^4)^-3
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Apply the Power of a Power rule: 2^-3 * (x^4)^-3 = 2^-3 * x^(4*-3) = 2^-3 * x^-12
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Apply the Negative Exponent rule: 2^-3 * x^-12 = 1/2^3 * 1/x^12
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Simplify: 1/2^3 * 1/x^12 = 1/8 * 1/x^12 = 1/(8x^12)
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of (2x^4)^-3 is 1/(8x^12).