Question

I dont understand how to combine positive and negative exponents. For example how would i solve 4 to the third power times 4 to the negative 4 power?

Answer 1

Answer: 1/4

Explanation:

If you are multiplying exponents that have the same base(the are both 4 to...),

keep the base the same, and add the exponents. In this case, 4^3*4^-4 would come out to 1/4. You never never never never want negative exponents. To get rid of them, use the recipricole. 4^-4 is the same as 1/256.

If the bases are not the same and the exponents are the same, do this:x^a*y^a=(xy)^a. Multiply the bases together, and keep the exponent the same.