Seemingly Simple Algebra (Exponent Rules)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of exponent rules in algebra, specifically the expression a(b/c) = \sqrt[c]{(a^b)}. A user attempts to evaluate the expression (-1)(2/3) \sqrt[3]{((-1)^2)} and arrives at -1, but encounters discrepancies with results from Wolfram Alpha and a calculator. The conversation emphasizes the importance of converting expressions to exponential form, particularly using the formula e^(i x theta) = cos(theta) + i x sin(theta) for complex numbers.

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janac
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I understand that

a(b/c)

=

[itex]\sqrt[c]{}(a^b)[/itex]

so this suggests that
(-1)(2/3)

[itex]\sqrt[3]{}((-1)^2)[/itex] = -1 right?

Wolfram alpha and my calculator disagree.
 
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Hey januc and welcome to the forums

Convert things to the exponential form if you want to do stuff like this. Exponential form is e^(i x theta) = cos(theta) + i x sin(theta)
 

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