1. Jun 29, 2004

Krazie

How would I simplify this equation? (3a^3)^-3(9a^-1)^-2
When I put those carrots in that means the next number is an exponent. Is there any easier way to write exponents?

2. Jun 29, 2004

Krazie

How would I simplify this one: (2a^-1)^-2(2a^-1)^4

3. Jun 29, 2004

Krazie

Would the simplified expression of the second equation be 4/a ?

4. Jun 29, 2004

Muzza

Carrot That's "caret", btw

Anyway, "distribute" some of the exponents. For example, $$(2a^{-1})^{-2} = 2^{-2} \cdot a^{(-1)(-2)} = \frac{1}{2^2} \cdot a^2 = a^2/4$$. Then do the same for the other paranthesis, multiply them together, etc.

The last one is almost 4/a, it's 4/a^2...

Last edited: Jun 29, 2004
5. Jun 29, 2004

HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
As far as "(2a^-1)-2(2a^-1)4" is concerned, there is a general formula: axay= ax+y.

(Edit: replaced x*y with x+y!)

Last edited: Jun 30, 2004
6. Jun 29, 2004

loseyourname

Staff Emeritus

Also, you can click on the expressions that Muzza typed out to see how he did it.

7. Jun 29, 2004

hello3719

you mean axay= ax+y

8. Jun 29, 2004

Krazie

ah nice hello. I thought that I was the only one that caught that. That would be sad. Thanks guys, this really helps, sorry if I bore you all with these simple problems, but i have to start somewhere.

9. Jun 30, 2004

Zurtex

Do you perhaps mean (ax)y = ax*y?

10. Jun 30, 2004

HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
Yes, I just corrected it!