Simplifying the Expression: (4/b)^(-3) ((2a^2)/3b)^4
This article will guide you through simplifying the expression (4/b)^(-3) ((2a^2)/3b)^4. We will break down the steps to make it easier to understand.
Understanding the Rules
Before we start simplifying, let's review some important exponent rules:
- Negative Exponent: x^(-n) = 1/x^n
- Fractional Exponent: (x/y)^n = x^n/y^n
- Product of Powers: (x^m)(x^n) = x^(m+n)
- Power of a Power: (x^m)^n = x^(m*n)
Applying the Rules
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Simplify the Negative Exponent:
- (4/b)^(-3) = 1/(4/b)^3
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Apply the Fractional Exponent Rule:
- 1/(4/b)^3 = 1/(4^3/b^3)
- 1/(4^3/b^3) = b^3/4^3
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Simplify the Second Term:
- ((2a^2)/3b)^4 = (2^4(a^2)^4)/(3^4b^4)
- (2^4(a^2)^4)/(3^4b^4) = 16a^8/81b^4
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Combine the Simplified Terms:
- (b^3/4^3) * (16a^8/81b^4) = (16a^8 * b^3) / (4^3 * 81 * b^4)
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Simplify further:
- (16a^8 * b^3) / (4^3 * 81 * b^4) = (16a^8) / (64 * 81 * b)
- Final Simplified Expression: a^8 / (324b)
Conclusion
By applying the rules of exponents, we have successfully simplified the expression (4/b)^(-3) ((2a^2)/3b)^4 to a^8 / (324b). This simplified form is easier to work with and understand. Remember, it's essential to understand the exponent rules to confidently manipulate expressions like this.