Math Problem Statement

Fully simplify the expression 3p^2 * 9p^(-1/2) / 3p^(1/4), writing your answer in the form ap^b.

Solution

The expression to simplify is:

3p2×9p1/23p1/4\frac{3p^2 \times 9p^{-1/2}}{3p^{1/4}}

Let's simplify it step by step:

Step 1: Simplify constants

We have 33 in the numerator and denominator, so we can cancel them out. Now the expression becomes: p2×9p1/2p1/4\frac{p^2 \times 9p^{-1/2}}{p^{1/4}}

Step 2: Combine powers of pp

Using the property of exponents pa×pb=pa+bp^a \times p^b = p^{a+b}, the numerator becomes: 9p2+(1/2)=9p3/29p^{2 + (-1/2)} = 9p^{3/2}

Step 3: Divide powers of pp

Now apply the rule papb=pab\frac{p^a}{p^b} = p^{a-b} to divide the terms: 9p3/2p1/4=9p3/21/4=9p6/41/4=9p5/4\frac{9p^{3/2}}{p^{1/4}} = 9p^{3/2 - 1/4} = 9p^{6/4 - 1/4} = 9p^{5/4}

Final answer:

The fully simplified expression is: 9p5/49p^{5/4}

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

  1. What happens if the powers in the numerator and denominator are negative?
  2. How do you simplify terms with fractional exponents?
  3. What is the general rule for multiplying exponents?
  4. How do you handle the division of terms with fractional powers?
  5. How can we simplify expressions with both constants and variables?

Tip: Always simplify constants first to make exponent manipulation easier!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponents
Algebraic Simplification

Formulas

Multiplication of powers: p^a * p^b = p^(a + b)
Division of powers: p^a / p^b = p^(a - b)

Theorems

Laws of Exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11