Simplifying Expressions with Exponents: (3xy^3)^2(xy)^6
This article will guide you through simplifying the expression (3xy^3)^2(xy)^6. We'll break down the process step-by-step, using the rules of exponents.
Understanding the Rules of Exponents
To simplify this expression, we need to recall some key exponent rules:
- Power of a product: (ab)^n = a^n * b^n
- Power of a power: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
Applying the Rules to Simplify
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Simplify the first term: (3xy^3)^2
Applying the power of a product rule: (3xy^3)^2 = 3^2 * x^2 * (y^3)^2
Then, applying the power of a power rule: 3^2 * x^2 * (y^3)^2 = 9x^2y^6
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Simplify the second term: (xy)^6
Using the power of a product rule: (xy)^6 = x^6 * y^6
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Multiply the simplified terms together:
9x^2y^6 * x^6y^6
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Combine like terms:
9x^(2+6) * y^(6+6) = 9x^8y^12
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of (3xy^3)^2(xy)^6 is 9x^8y^12. By carefully applying the rules of exponents, we were able to break down the expression and arrive at a concise solution.