Math Problem Statement

Given a = 9 and b = 2, work out the value of (a/b) - a^b.

Solution

The problem given is:

a=9andb=2a = 9 \quad \text{and} \quad b = 2

You need to calculate the value of:

abab\frac{a}{b} - a^b

Let's break this down step by step:

  1. Calculate ab\frac{a}{b}:

    92=4.5\frac{9}{2} = 4.5

  2. Calculate aba^b:

    92=819^2 = 81

  3. Subtract aba^b from ab\frac{a}{b}:

    4.581=76.54.5 - 81 = -76.5

So, the final answer is:

76.5\boxed{-76.5}

Would you like a more detailed explanation or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. What is the general formula for calculating aba^b and how does it differ when bb is a negative integer?
  2. How does the expression change if bb were a fraction instead of an integer?
  3. Can you explain the difference between arithmetic operations and exponentiation?
  4. How would the expression abab\frac{a}{b} - a^b change if both aa and bb were negative?
  5. How do you interpret and solve similar expressions when aa and bb are variables instead of constants?

Tip: When subtracting large numbers, double-check your calculations to avoid simple mistakes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Basic Arithmetic
Exponentiation
Subtraction

Formulas

a/b
a^b

Theorems

-

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8