Math Problem Statement

Evaluate the left hand side to find the value of a,a in the equation in simplest form. start fraction, x, start superscript, start fraction, 5, divided by, 3, end fraction, end superscript, divided by, x, start superscript, start fraction, 6, divided by, 5, end fraction, end superscript, end fraction, equals, x, to the power a x 5 6 ​

x 3 5 ​

x a

Solution

We need to simplify the left-hand side of the equation to find the exponent aa in terms of xax^a.

Given expression:

x53x65=xa\frac{x^{\frac{5}{3}}}{x^{\frac{6}{5}}} = x^a

Step 1: Apply the Quotient Rule of Exponents

The quotient rule states: xmxn=xmn\frac{x^m}{x^n} = x^{m-n} Applying this rule: x5365=xax^{\frac{5}{3} - \frac{6}{5}} = x^a

Step 2: Find a Common Denominator

The denominators are 3 and 5. The least common denominator is 15. Convert each fraction:

53=2515,65=1815\frac{5}{3} = \frac{25}{15}, \quad \frac{6}{5} = \frac{18}{15}

Now, subtract: 25151815=715\frac{25}{15} - \frac{18}{15} = \frac{7}{15}

Step 3: Conclusion

x715=xax^{\frac{7}{15}} = x^a

Thus, the value of aa is: 715\frac{7}{15}


Do you need more clarification or a step-by-step breakdown? Here are some related questions:

  1. How does the quotient rule for exponents work in general?
  2. Can you explain how to find a common denominator in fractions?
  3. What happens if the bases are different in exponent rules?
  4. How would this problem change if there were coefficients in front of xx?
  5. How do negative exponents affect the calculation?

Tip: Always express exponents in a common denominator before performing addition or subtraction.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponents
Algebra
Fractional Exponents
Simplifying Expressions

Formulas

Quotient Rule of Exponents: (x^m)/(x^n) = x^(m-n)

Theorems

Quotient Rule of Exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11