Negative Fractional Exponent problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves simplifying an expression with a negative fractional exponent, specifically 3x(3x^(-1/3))^3. The original poster expresses confusion about how the x terms cancel to arrive at the answer of 81.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the simplification of the expression, with one providing a step-by-step breakdown that leads to the answer. There is also a mention of a common mistake regarding the placement of terms in the denominator.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been offered through a detailed breakdown of the expression, which seems to clarify the original poster's confusion. However, there is no explicit consensus on the reasoning behind the cancellation of terms.

Contextual Notes

It is noted that x cannot be zero, which is an important constraint in the context of the problem.

jdoyle
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Hi All,

Can anyone walk me through this problem. This is from an old med school entry test.

The answer is 81 but I can't work out how the x terms cancel.



3x(3x^ -1/3)^3

Thanks in advance

John
 
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\frac{3x}{(^3\sqrt{x})^3}3^3=\frac{3x}{x}3^3=27*3=81

Given of course that x is not 0.
 
Hi Meldraft,

It looks so simple I don't know why I didn't do it that way. Thanks very much.

John
 
It's very easy to put that 3^3 in the denominator by accident :wink:
 

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