Simplifying the Expression (3a^-2b)^3
This article will guide you through simplifying the expression (3a^-2b)^3.
Understanding the Rules
To simplify this expression, we need to apply a few key exponent rules:
- Power of a Product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Power of a Quotient: (a/b)^n = a^n / b^n
- Power of a Power: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
Applying the Rules
Let's break down the simplification step-by-step:
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Apply the Power of a Product Rule: (3a^-2b)^3 = 3^3 * (a^-2)^3 * b^3
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Apply the Power of a Power Rule: 3^3 * (a^-2)^3 * b^3 = 27 * a^(-2*3) * b^3
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Simplify the exponents: 27 * a^(-2*3) * b^3 = 27 * a^-6 * b^3
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Rewrite with positive exponents: 27 * a^-6 * b^3 = 27b^3 / a^6
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (3a^-2b)^3 is 27b^3 / a^6.