Exponent Laws Related Homework Question

pandamonium786 · Sep 9, 2015

Homework Statement

For which non-zero value of x is the equation -x^ -4 = (-x)^ -4 true? Explain.

None. Other than applicable exponent laws.

I know how to use the guess and check method. But I was wondering how to reach the answer faster and how to solve this problem.

LittleMrsMonkey · Sep 9, 2015

There is no value for which it is true.Try and prove it.

pandamonium786 · Sep 9, 2015

LittleMrsMonkey said:

There is no value for which it is true.Try and prove it.

i understand that but could negative numbers like -1 work?

LittleMrsMonkey · Sep 9, 2015

If you raise any negative to an even power(like -4) it gives something positive.

LittleMrsMonkey · Sep 9, 2015

Try to simplify the equation,you will get to -1=1,which of course isn't true.So the equation isn't true for any x.

pandamonium786 · Sep 9, 2015

LittleMrsMonkey said:

Try to simplify the equation,you will get to -1=1,which of course isn't true.So the equation isn't true for any x.

Thanks again :D

HallsofIvy · Sep 10, 2015

pandamonium786 said:

i understand that but could negative numbers like -1 work?

How can you possibly say "I understand" that no value works and then ask if a negative value works?