The discussion revolves around simplifying the expression 4^(1+√2) * 4^(1-√2), which involves exponent rules in precalculus. Participants are trying to understand the correct approach to handle the exponents in this multiplication.
The discussion is active, with participants exploring the correct approach to exponent multiplication. Some guidance has been offered regarding the misunderstanding of applying the FOIL method to exponents, indicating a productive direction in clarifying the topic.
There seems to be confusion regarding the application of exponent rules, as the original poster mentions differing results from the textbook. The discussion may be constrained by the original poster's understanding of exponent operations.
Jurrasic said:foil exponents
gb7nash said:This is your problem. What should you be doing to the exponents?
Jurrasic said:can you rephrase that, what do you mean by that?
gb7nash said:You're trying to foil the exponents. That indicates that you're multiplying them. What should you be doing instead to the exponents?