Final answer:
In order to simplify the given expression (3⁻⁸ₓ 7³)⁻², begin by evaluating the expression inside the parentheses. The equivalent expression is option A. 7⁶/3¹⁶.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to simplify the given expression (3⁻⁸ₓ 7³)⁻², begin by evaluating the expression inside the parentheses.
Apply the exponent to each base within the parentheses, yielding 1/3⁸ₓ 7³.
Combine the bases with the same exponent, which is -2 in this case, resulting in 7³⁻⁸ / 3⁸.
Finally, simplify the exponents to obtain 7⁻⁵ / 3⁸.
So, the equivalent expression is 7⁶/3¹⁶, as 7⁻⁵ is equivalent to 1/7⁵.
This simplification process ensures that the expression is represented in a more condensed and comprehensible form.
The result is a fraction with 7⁶ in the numerator and 3¹⁶ in the denominator, emphasizing the importance of systematically simplifying complex mathematical expressions to facilitate clearer interpretation and analysis.
Thus, the equivalent expression is option A. 7⁶/3¹⁶, as 7⁻⁵ is equivalent to 1/7⁵.