Question

If the expression (3x^5)^6 was written in ax^b form, what would be the value of a-b?

a) 15
b) 30
c) 3
d) 6

Answer 1

To simplify the expression (3x^5)^6 in ax^b form, we need to apply the rule for exponentiation. We cube the digit term and multiply the exponent term by 3. The expression can be written as 27x^30, so the value of a - b is -3.

Step-by-step explanation:

To simplify the expression (3x^5)^6 in ax^b form, we need to apply the rule for exponentiation. When raising a power to another power, we multiply the exponents. In this case, the digit term is 3 and the exponent term is 5. Cubing the digit term gives us 3^3 = 27, and multiplying the exponent term by 3 gives us 5 x 6 = 30. Therefore, the expression can be written as 27x^30. So, the value of a - b is 27 - 30 = -3.