Working with Negative Integral Exponents in Mathematics

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Questions and Answers

What is the result of converting the negative exponent in the equation $y^{-3} = 1/125$ to a positive exponent?

  • $y^3 = 125$ (correct)
  • $y^3 = 1/125$
  • $y^{-3} = -125$
  • $y^{-3} = 125$

When simplifying the expression $5x^{-2}$, what is the correct simplified form?

  • $5/x^{-2}$
  • $5/x^2$ (correct)
  • $5x^{-2}$
  • $5x^2$

In the expression $(a^2b^{-3})/(ab)$, what is the result after applying the quotient rule for negative exponents?

  • $a^{2}b^{3}$
  • $a^{1}b^{-2}$ (correct)
  • $ab^{-2}$
  • $a^{3}b^{-4}$

If you have to simplify $7x^{-3}y^4$, what would be the correct simplified form?

<p>$7y/x$ (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of multiplying $6x^{-2} * 3x^{-4}$ and simplifying using the product rule for negative exponents?

<p>$18x^{-6}$ (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If we have the equation $2y^{-1} = 16$, what is the value of $y$ after converting the negative exponent to a positive exponent?

<p>$y = 8$ (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Working with Negative Integral Exponents in Mathematics

Negative integral exponents in mathematics can lead to counterintuitive results at first glance, but they play a crucial role in solving equations, simplifying expressions, and manipulating functions. Let's delve into these concepts and uncover their foundations.

Solving Equations Involving Negative Exponents

When solving equations with negative exponents, the key is to rewrite the equation in a form where the exponents are nonnegative. For example, if we have (x^{-2} = 4), we can rewrite this as (x^2 = 1/4), which we can solve traditionally.

Simplifying Expressions with Negative Exponents

Negative exponents signify reciprocals. For instance, (x^{-1} = \frac{1}{x}), (x^{-2} = \frac{1}{x^2}), and so on. This convention helps us simplify expressions involving negative exponents. For example, ({(2x)}^{-3} = \frac{1}{(2x)^3} = \frac{1}{8x^3}).

Applying the Quotient Rule with Negative Exponents

When dealing with quotients of expressions with negative exponents, we must apply the quotient rule, which states that ((a^m/a^n) = a^{m-n}). For example, (\frac{x^{-2}}{x^{-3}} = x^{2-3} = x^{-1}).

Applying the Product Rule with Negative Exponents

The product rule, which states that (a^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n}), applies to expressions with negative exponents as well. For instance, (x^{-2} \cdot x^{-3} = x^{-2-3} = x^{-5}).

Converting Negative Exponents to Positive Exponents

Converting negative exponents to positive exponents can help make calculations easier, especially when dealing with fractions or ratios. For example, if we have (\frac{3}{x^{-2}} = 3 \cdot x^2). This conversion allows us to perform calculations more intuitively and efficiently.

Negative exponents, especially when combined with integral exponents, can sometimes seem confusing. However, once you grasp the basic principles and rules, you'll find that they open up a world of possibilities—from solving complex equations to simplifying complex expressions.

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