Question

How can the following expression be written so that no negative exponents appear?

(a5)³a-6
Q-2

Answer 1

a^11

Explanation:

1) Simplify the numerator. Use the laws: (x^a)^y = x^ay, x^a × x^b = x^a+b.

= a¹⁵ × a^-6 / a^-2

= a⁹ / a^-2

2) Divide them. Use the law: x^a / x^b = x^a - b.

= a^9 - (-2) / 1

= a^9 + 2 / 1

= a^11