Multiplying different bases with different exponents

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying an expression involving radicals with different bases and exponents, specifically the expression \(\sqrt[4]{xy}\sqrt[3]{x^2y}\).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express difficulty in adding exponents and multiplying bases due to the differing radical forms. Some suggest the possibility of combining bases by finding a common denominator for the exponents.

Discussion Status

There are multiple attempts to clarify the problem, with hints provided to guide the participants toward a potential method of simplification. Some participants acknowledge the hints as helpful, while others continue to explore the problem without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the direct provision of solutions. There is an emphasis on understanding the manipulation of exponents and radicals.

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Homework Statement


Write an expression containing a single radical and simplify.

Homework Equations


\sqrt[4]{xy}\sqrt[3]{x^2{y}}

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't add the exponents and I can't multiply the bases. I can't take anything out of the radicals to make the bases the same. I have no idea what to do.

Thanks
 
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leroyjenkens said:

Homework Statement


Write an expression containing a single radical and simplify.

Homework Equations


\sqrt[4]{xy}\sqrt[3]{x^2{y}}

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't add the exponents and I can't multiply the bases. I can't take anything out of the radicals to make the bases the same. I have no idea what to do.

Thanks
Hint: ##\sqrt[4]{x^3} = \sqrt[12]{x^9}##
Is that enough of a hint?
 
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Mark44 said:
Hint: ##\sqrt[4]{x^3} = \sqrt[12]{x^9}##
Is that enough of a hint?
Yes. Thank you.
 
leroyjenkens said:

Homework Statement


Write an expression containing a single radical and simplify.

Homework Equations


\sqrt[4]{xy}\sqrt[3]{x^2{y}}

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't add the exponents and I can't multiply the bases. I can't take anything out of the radicals to make the bases the same. I have no idea what to do.

Thanks

Of course you can combine the bases (just by adding the fractions), and you can even make them the same by putting all fractions over a common denominator.
 
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See the expression as this,
(xy)^(1/4)*(x^2y)^(1/3)
then,
apply power to x and y,
as follows,
x^(1/4)*y^(1/4)*x^(2/3)*y^(1/3)
now remember the rules,
x^(1/4+2/3)*y^(1/4+1/3)
now simplify this,
x^(11/12)*y^(7/12)
now you might get what to do next...
 

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