Math Problem Statement

(a^-2)^-1)^-1/(a/a^-1)^2

Solution

To simplify the expression ((a2)1)1(aa1)2\frac{((a^{-2})^{-1})^{-1}}{\left(\frac{a}{a^{-1}}\right)^2}, let’s work through it step-by-step.

Step 1: Simplify the Numerator ((a2)1)1((a^{-2})^{-1})^{-1}

  1. Start with (a2)1(a^{-2})^{-1}:

    • When raising a power to another power, multiply the exponents.
    • So, (a2)1=a2(a^{-2})^{-1} = a^{2}.
  2. Now, take (a2)1(a^{2})^{-1}:

    • This becomes a2a^{-2}.

Thus, the numerator simplifies to a2a^{-2}.

Step 2: Simplify the Denominator (aa1)2\left(\frac{a}{a^{-1}}\right)^2

  1. Simplify the inner expression aa1\frac{a}{a^{-1}}:

    • Dividing by a1a^{-1} is equivalent to multiplying by aa, so aa1=aa=a2\frac{a}{a^{-1}} = a \cdot a = a^2.
  2. Now, raise a2a^2 to the power of 22:

    • (a2)2=a4(a^2)^2 = a^{4}.

So, the denominator simplifies to a4a^{4}.

Step 3: Combine the Results

Now, the expression becomes: a2a4\frac{a^{-2}}{a^{4}}

Using the rule am/an=amna^m / a^n = a^{m - n}, we get: a24=a6a^{-2 - 4} = a^{-6}

Final Answer

a6=1a6a^{-6} = \frac{1}{a^6}


Would you like further details, or do you have any questions about these steps?


Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. What are the rules for handling negative exponents in different expressions?
  2. How would the answer change if the base aa was a fraction?
  3. Can we extend these simplification techniques to other bases or variables?
  4. What happens if an exponent is zero? How does that affect an expression?
  5. How does simplifying complex expressions differ when variables have unknown values?

Tip: Always simplify each part of an expression separately before combining them for a final answer.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Exponents
Simplification of Expressions

Formulas

Power of a power rule: (a^m)^n = a^(m*n)
Division of exponents rule: a^m / a^n = a^(m-n)
Reciprocal property: a^-n = 1/a^n

Theorems

Exponentiation rules
Simplification of expressions with negative exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10