Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (3x^5)^2 / 27x^3
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (3x^5)^2 / 27x^3. We'll break down each step and explain the reasoning behind it.
Understanding the Rules of Exponents
Before we begin, let's refresh our understanding of exponent rules:
- Power of a product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Power of a power: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
- Division of exponents with the same base: a^m / a^n = a^(m-n)
Step-by-Step Simplification
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Simplify the numerator:
- Apply the power of a product rule: (3x^5)^2 = 3^2 * (x^5)^2
- Apply the power of a power rule: 3^2 * (x^5)^2 = 9x^(5*2) = 9x^10
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Rewrite the expression:
- The simplified expression now becomes: (9x^10) / 27x^3
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Simplify the coefficients:
- Divide both numerator and denominator by 9: (9x^10) / 27x^3 = (x^10) / 3x^3
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Simplify the variables:
- Apply the division of exponents rule: (x^10) / 3x^3 = (1/3) * x^(10-3) = (1/3) * x^7
The Final Answer
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (3x^5)^2 / 27x^3 is (1/3)x^7 or x^7 / 3.