Solving (x^2)^y on TI-89 Titanium

[2Xist]

Hi,

again as usual, i unfortunally have another question about the ti-89 titanum
when i insert (x^2)^2 i get x^4 (due to the power law in expoents) but when i insert (x^2)^y i get the same answer back, (x^2)^y. what i think the answer should be is x^2y but i donno what's wrong.

Please try on your own calculators and reply results

thanks again

 

[K.J.Healey]

Even mathematica does it.
Perhaps it has something to do with the calculator not knowing if x or y belong to the real or complex set.

 

[2Xist]

so.. ur saying my cal is fked up?

 

[chroot]

No, K.J.Healey is saying the calculator cannot simplify your expression further unless you tell it more about what x and y are.

- Warren