Is x4yz3 divided by x3y3z simplified as xy-2z2?

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SUMMARY

The expression x4y z3 divided by x3y3z simplifies to xz2/y2, not xy-2z2. The misunderstanding arises from the interpretation of negative exponents, where y-2 is equivalent to 1/y2. In an academic setting, unless explicitly stated to use only positive exponents, the answer xy-2z2 may still be considered incorrect.

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Gringo123
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Simplify:

x4yz3 / x3y3z

My answer was:
xy-2z2

However, the correct answer appears to be:

xz2 / y2

I know that y-2 is the same as 1/y2 so would my answer still be marked as wrong in an exam?
 
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Unless the problem specifically said "write with positive exponents only", it certainly should not be. Of course, I can't say if it would be or not!
 

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