Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (3xy)^(2x^4y)/x^5
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (3xy)^(2x^4y)/x^5. We'll break down the process step-by-step using the rules of exponents.
Understanding the Expression
Let's first analyze the expression:
- (3xy)^(2x^4y): This represents a product of variables raised to an exponent.
- x^5: This is a single variable raised to a power.
Applying the Rules of Exponents
To simplify this expression, we'll utilize the following rules:
- (a^m)^n = a^(m*n): When raising a power to another power, we multiply the exponents.
- (ab)^n = a^n * b^n: The power of a product is the product of the powers.
- a^m / a^n = a^(m-n): When dividing powers with the same base, we subtract the exponents.
Simplifying the Expression
Let's apply these rules to our expression:
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Simplify the numerator:
- (3xy)^(2x^4y) = 3^(2x^4y) * x^(2x^4y) * y^(2x^4y)
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Combine the numerator and denominator:
- 3^(2x^4y) * x^(2x^4y) * y^(2x^4y) / x^5
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Simplify the x terms:
- 3^(2x^4y) * x^(2x^4y - 5) * y^(2x^4y)
Final Simplified Expression
The simplified form of the expression (3xy)^(2x^4y)/x^5 is 3^(2x^4y) * x^(2x^4y - 5) * y^(2x^4y).
Conclusion
By using the fundamental rules of exponents, we successfully simplified the complex expression. This process highlights the importance of understanding these rules for manipulating and simplifying algebraic expressions.