Math Problem Statement

Calculate: 2^(-5) ÷ (2^3 ÷ 2^6)

Solution

Let's solve the given expression step by step.

The expression is:
25÷(23÷26)2^{-5} \div \left(2^3 \div 2^6\right)

Step 1: Simplify the parentheses (23÷26)(2^3 \div 2^6)

Using the property of exponents am÷an=amna^m \div a^n = a^{m-n}, we get:
23÷26=236=232^3 \div 2^6 = 2^{3-6} = 2^{-3}

Step 2: Substitute back into the original expression

The expression becomes:
25÷232^{-5} \div 2^{-3}

Step 3: Simplify the division

Again using the property am÷an=amna^m \div a^n = a^{m-n}, we get:
25÷23=25(3)=25+3=222^{-5} \div 2^{-3} = 2^{-5 - (-3)} = 2^{-5 + 3} = 2^{-2}

Step 4: Evaluate 222^{-2}

The negative exponent rule states an=1ana^{-n} = \frac{1}{a^n}, so:
22=122=142^{-2} = \frac{1}{2^2} = \frac{1}{4}

Final Answer:

14\boxed{\frac{1}{4}}

Would you like a deeper explanation or have any questions?


Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What happens when you multiply powers with the same base, such as 2m2n2^m \cdot 2^n?
  2. How do you simplify 24222^{-4} \cdot 2^2?
  3. What is the general rule for handling negative exponents?
  4. How would the calculation differ if the base were 33 instead of 22?
  5. Can you explain the difference between (23)2(2^3)^2 and 23+22^{3+2}?

Tip: Always handle operations inside parentheses first and use exponent rules systematically!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponents
Order of Operations

Formulas

a^m ÷ a^n = a^(m-n)
a^(-n) = 1/a^n

Theorems

Properties of Exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10