[pre algebra help] simplification

  • Thread starter Thread starter vincentm
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Algebra
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around the simplification of the expression 5^2 + 3^0, which involves understanding the rules of exponents and the evaluation of powers.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the simplification process, questioning the value of 3^0 and discussing its implications. There are attempts to clarify the misunderstanding regarding exponent rules.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the evaluation of powers, noting that 3^0 equals 1. The conversation has evolved to include humorous exchanges about the notation used in the simplification process, but there is no explicit consensus on the final interpretation of the expression.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of potential confusion regarding the notation "26!" and its distinction from the number 26, indicating a need for clarity in mathematical terminology.

vincentm
Messages
322
Reaction score
3
how do i simplify?

[tex]5^2+3^0[/tex]

would it be

[tex]5x5+3^0[/tex]

and then

25+3?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Review the rule for powers because 3^0 is not 3.
 
Plastic Photon said:
Review the rule for powers because 3^0 is not 3.


ok, i was just told that [tex]3^0[/tex] =1, but how?
 
ok, so [tex]5^2+3^0[/tex]
is simplified to:

[tex]25+1[/tex]
 
vincentm said:
ok, so [tex]5^2+3^0[/tex]
is simplified to:

[tex]25+1[/tex]

Yes, although if you really want to "simplify" it do one more step:
25+ 1= 26!
 
HallsofIvy said:
25+ 1= 26!

Just a note to the OP, 26! is not equal to 26. HallsofIvy wasn't referring to a factorial (if you're familiar with that subject).
 
[Quadratic] said:
Just a note to the OP, 26! is not equal to 26. HallsofIvy wasn't referring to a factorial (if you're familiar with that subject).
Wicked! :biggrin:
 
Actually, I thought about that but it occurred to me that if the poster was concerned about 30, he wouldn't think I meant factorial and mentioning it would just confuse things.
 
  • #10
HallsofIvy said:
Actually, I thought about that but it occurred to me that if the poster was concerned about 30, he wouldn't think I meant factorial and mentioning it would just confuse things.

I figured you had thought about it. I'm just a bit too particular I guess :blushing:

arildno said:
Wicked! :biggrin:
I got him, didn't I? :smile:

Jk Halls! I'm not worthy!
 
  • #11
[Quadratic] said:
Just a note to the OP, 26! is not equal to 26. HallsofIvy wasn't referring to a factorial (if you're familiar with that subject).

I got a good laugh out of that one :).
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K