Simplifying the Expression (3x^3y^2)(-6y^5)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the expression (3x^3y^2)(-6y^5).
Understanding the Basics
To simplify this expression, we need to understand a few key concepts:
- Coefficients: Numbers that multiply variables are called coefficients. In our expression, 3 and -6 are the coefficients.
- Variables: Letters representing unknown values. In our expression, x and y are the variables.
- Exponents: Numbers that indicate how many times a variable is multiplied by itself. In our expression, 3, 2, and 5 are exponents.
Applying the Rules
To simplify the expression, we use the following rules:
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Multiply coefficients: Multiply the coefficients together: (3) * (-6) = -18
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Multiply variables with the same base: When multiplying variables with the same base, add their exponents: x^3 * x^0 = x^(3+0) = x^3
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Multiply variables with different bases: We keep them separate.
Simplifying the Expression
Applying these rules to our expression:
(3x^3y^2)(-6y^5) = (-18)(x^3)(y^(2+5))
Simplifying further:
(-18)(x^3)(y^7)
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (3x^3y^2)(-6y^5) is -18x^3y^7.