Simplifying (3y⁴)²
In mathematics, simplifying expressions often involves understanding the rules of exponents. Let's break down how to simplify (3y⁴)².
Understanding the Rules
- Power of a product: (ab)ⁿ = aⁿbⁿ
- Power of a power: (aⁿ)ᵐ = aⁿᵐ
Applying the Rules
- Apply the power of a product rule: (3y⁴)² = 3² (y⁴)²
- Apply the power of a power rule: 3² (y⁴)² = 9y⁸
The Simplified Expression
Therefore, the simplified form of (3y⁴)² is 9y⁸.
Key Points
- Exponents indicate repeated multiplication: y⁴ means y multiplied by itself four times (y * y * y * y).
- Simplifying expressions makes them easier to work with: It's often essential for further calculations or analysis.