%5E2.jpeg "(4/5a^2)^2")
Simplifying (4/5a^2)^2
The expression (4/5a^2)^2 represents squaring the entire fraction 4/5a^2. To simplify this expression, we need to apply the power rule for exponents, which states that (a/b)^n = a^n/b^n.
Step 1: Apply the Power Rule
Applying the power rule, we get: (4/5a^2)^2 = 4^2 / (5a^2)^2
Step 2: Simplify the Exponents
Squaring both the numerator and denominator, we get: 4^2 / (5a^2)^2 = 16 / (25a^4)
Step 3: Final Result
Therefore, the simplified form of (4/5a^2)^2 is 16 / 25a^4.
Key Points to Remember
- Power Rule: (a/b)^n = a^n/b^n
- Squaring a Fraction: To square a fraction, square both the numerator and the denominator.
- Simplifying Exponents: When dealing with variables raised to exponents, remember that (a^m)^n = a^(m*n).
This simplification demonstrates a fundamental concept in algebra and serves as a building block for more complex expressions.