Exponentiation Basics: Convert -ve Indices to +ve

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Raabi
  • Start date Start date
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conversion of negative indices to positive indices in the context of a mathematical expression involving variables and constants. Participants explore the meaning of negative indices and how to express them positively.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a mathematical expression and seeks assistance in converting negative indices to positive.
  • Another participant questions the understanding of negative indices and suggests expressing x^{-m} in terms of positive indices.
  • A third participant claims to have solved the problem but does not elaborate further.
  • A participant challenges the lack of engagement from the original poster after their initial inquiry.
  • Another participant defends the original poster, suggesting they likely understand the concept if they claim to have solved the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the original poster's engagement with the discussion, and multiple views exist regarding the necessity of further clarification on negative indices.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided detailed steps or definitions regarding the conversion process, leaving some assumptions and mathematical expressions unresolved.

Raabi
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Hello everyone!

I am a new member of this forum and this is my first post. At the moment, I am looking for the solution for the following:

(x-m - a-m)/(x - a)​

I intend to change the -ve indices into +ve.

Thanks, in anticipation, for any help.

Regards.
 
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Hello!

Ok, so what do negative indices mean? How would you express [itex]x^{-m}[/itex] with a positive index?
 
Thanks for the response, Mentallic. Yes, I meant that; but I have solved the problem. Have a nice time.
 
Please do not post a thread and then refuse to answer any questions about it! Mentallic was trying to find out if you knew that [itex]x^{-m}= \frac{1}{x^m}[/itex]
 
Halls, the guy did nothing wrong. If he claims to have figured out the problem then I'm sure he knows the answer to my question.

Good luck with your studies Raabi!
 

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