195k views
4 votes
How to simplify exponential equations?

1 Answer

3 votes
To simplify exponential equations, you can use the rules of exponents. Here are some common techniques:

1. Product Rule: When multiplying two exponential expressions with the same base, you can add their exponents. For example, 2^3 * 2^4 = 2^(3+4) = 2^7.

2. Quotient Rule: When dividing two exponential expressions with the same base, you can subtract their exponents. For example, 5^6 / 5^2 = 5^(6-2) = 5^4.

3. Power Rule: When raising an exponential expression to another exponent, you can multiply the exponents. For example, (3^2)^3 = 3^(2*3) = 3^6.

4. Negative Exponents: Any nonzero number raised to the power of -n is equal to its reciprocal raised to the power of n. For example, 2^(-3) = 1 / (2^3) = 1/8.

5. Zero Exponent: Any nonzero number raised to the power of 0 is equal to 1. For example, 5^0 = 1.

6. Simplifying Radicals: You can rewrite a radical expression with an exponent. For example, √(x^2) = x.

Remember to apply these rules carefully and simplify each term individually before combining them if necessary.
User Factor Mystic
by
8.1k points