Simplifying the Expression (x^-4y/x^-9y^5)^-2
This article will guide you through simplifying the expression (x^-4y/x^-9y^5)^-2. Let's break down the steps using the rules of exponents.
Understanding the Properties of Exponents
To simplify the given expression, we need to recall the following properties of exponents:
- Product of Powers: x^m * x^n = x^(m+n)
- Quotient of Powers: x^m / x^n = x^(m-n)
- Power of a Power: (x^m)^n = x^(m*n)
- Negative Exponent: x^-n = 1/x^n
Simplifying the Expression
Let's simplify the expression step by step:
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Apply the Power of a Power rule: (x^-4y/x^-9y^5)^-2 = x^8y^-2 / x^18y^-10
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Apply the Quotient of Powers rule: x^8y^-2 / x^18y^-10 = x^(8-18)y^(-2-(-10))
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Simplify the exponents: x^(8-18)y^(-2-(-10)) = x^-10y^8
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Apply the Negative Exponent rule: x^-10y^8 = 1/x^10y^8
Therefore, the simplified form of (x^-4y/x^-9y^5)^-2 is 1/x^10y^8.
Conclusion
By applying the rules of exponents, we successfully simplified the given expression. Remember to always work through the steps systematically, using the appropriate properties to achieve the desired simplification.