Question

Which of the following values is equivalent to 5^-3

a. 1/15
b. 1/125
c. -15
d. -125

Answer 1

The value of 5^-3 is equivalent to 1/125, as it represents a negative exponent which translates to 1 divided by the base raised to the positive power.

Step-by-step explanation:

The expression 5^-3 is an example of a negative exponent. According to the rules of exponents, this expression can be rewritten as 1/5^3. Evaluating 5^3, we get 5 * 5 * 5 which equals 125. Therefore, 5^-3 is equal to 1/125.

Answer 2

The equivalent value of 5^-3 is 1/125, as a negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the absolute value of that exponent.

Step-by-step explanation:

The value of 5^-3 is equivalent to 1/125. To understand this, remember that a negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the absolute value of that exponent. Hence, 5^-3 means 1 divided by 5 to the power of 3. Since 5 cubed (5^3) is 125, 5^-3 is the same as 1/5^3, which simplifies to 1/125.