Question

For the following fraction ,tell whether you will add ,subtract, or multiply the exponents

Answer 1

We add them

But for negative values we always keep the negative value as a decrease.

4 x -4 as powers still becomes -8

and not -16

Explanation:

The exponent "product rule" tells us that, when multiplying two powers that have the same base, you can add the exponents. In this example, you can see how it works. Adding the exponents is just a short cut! The "power rule" tells us that to raise a power to a power, just multiply the exponents.

2^4 x 3^-4 = 16/81 shows and proves we multiply them and just use adding as a short cut.

Answer 2

Add the exponents

Explanation:

Product Rule: am ∙ an = am + n, this says that to multiply two exponents with the same base, you keep the base and add the powers.

EX:

x multiplied by x^5=x^6