Math Problem Statement

Order the expressions by choosing >, <, or = for: 3^4 × 3^3 / 12^3, 3^3 × 4^3 / 12^4, and 3^4 × 4^3 / 12^3.

Solution

Let's break down each expression in the image and compare them step by step.

We have three expressions to compare. These are:

  1. 34×33123\frac{3^4 \times 3^3}{12^3}
  2. 33×43124\frac{3^3 \times 4^3}{12^4}
  3. 34×43123\frac{3^4 \times 4^3}{12^3}

Simplifying each expression:

First expression:

34×33123=34+3123=37123\frac{3^4 \times 3^3}{12^3} = \frac{3^{4+3}}{12^3} = \frac{3^7}{12^3}

Second expression:

33×43124=33×43(3×4)4=33×4334×44=3334×4344=13×4=112\frac{3^3 \times 4^3}{12^4} = \frac{3^3 \times 4^3}{(3 \times 4)^4} = \frac{3^3 \times 4^3}{3^4 \times 4^4} = \frac{3^3}{3^4} \times \frac{4^3}{4^4} = \frac{1}{3 \times 4} = \frac{1}{12}

Third expression:

34×43123=34×43(3×4)3=34×4333×43=343=3\frac{3^4 \times 4^3}{12^3} = \frac{3^4 \times 4^3}{(3 \times 4)^3} = \frac{3^4 \times 4^3}{3^3 \times 4^3} = 3^{4-3} = 3

Now we can compare the three simplified results:

  1. 37123\frac{3^7}{12^3}
  2. 112\frac{1}{12}
  3. 33

Comparison:

  • 37123\frac{3^7}{12^3} is a very large number.
  • 112\frac{1}{12} is smaller than 1.
  • 33 is clearly larger than 112\frac{1}{12}, but smaller than 37123\frac{3^7}{12^3}.

Thus, the correct ordering of the expressions is: 37123>3>112\frac{3^7}{12^3} > 3 > \frac{1}{12}

Do you want more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions to explore further:

  1. How can we generalize this comparison technique for any base and exponent combination?
  2. What is the importance of simplifying expressions before comparing them?
  3. What role do negative exponents play in simplifying fractions?
  4. How do different base powers influence the growth of exponential expressions?
  5. How does this problem help in understanding the properties of exponents?

Tip: Always simplify exponentiated terms before comparing them directly, as the results may be more intuitive!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponentiation
Multiplication of Powers
Simplifying Fractions

Formulas

a^m × a^n = a^(m+n)
(a × b)^n = a^n × b^n
Simplification of powers and fractions

Theorems

Laws of Exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11