Math Problem Statement

Simplify and express the given expression using positive exponents: \(\frac{3r^{-1}st}{3r^{-6}s^{3}t}\).

Solution

To simplify the given expression, let's work step by step:

The expression is:

3r1st3r6s3t.\frac{3r^{-1}st}{3r^{-6}s^{3}t}.

Step 1: Cancel the coefficients

The coefficient "3" is the same in the numerator and denominator, so it cancels out:

r1str6s3t.\frac{r^{-1}st}{r^{-6}s^{3}t}.

Step 2: Simplify the variables rr, ss, and tt

rr terms:

Use the rule of exponents aman=amn\frac{a^m}{a^n} = a^{m-n}:

r1r6=r1(6)=r1+6=r5.\frac{r^{-1}}{r^{-6}} = r^{-1 - (-6)} = r^{-1 + 6} = r^5.

ss terms:

ss3=s13=s2.\frac{s}{s^3} = s^{1-3} = s^{-2}.

tt terms:

tt=t11=t0=1.\frac{t}{t} = t^{1-1} = t^0 = 1.

Step 3: Combine the results

Now the expression simplifies to:

r5s2.r^5s^{-2}.

Step 4: Write with positive exponents

To express s2s^{-2} with a positive exponent, rewrite it as 1s2\frac{1}{s^2}:

r5s2=r5s2.r^5s^{-2} = \frac{r^5}{s^2}.

Final Answer:

r5s2\boxed{\frac{r^5}{s^2}}

Would you like additional details or examples on exponent rules?


Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How would you simplify x3y2x5y4\frac{x^{-3}y^2}{x^{-5}y^{-4}} using positive exponents?
  2. What are the general rules for simplifying expressions with negative exponents?
  3. If aman=am+na^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n}, how would this apply to division?
  4. How do you simplify expressions with coefficients, such as 6x23x4\frac{6x^{-2}}{3x^4}?
  5. What does x0=1x^0 = 1 represent, and why does it hold for any nonzero xx?

Tip: Always handle coefficients and variables separately when simplifying algebraic fractions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Exponent Rules
Simplification of Rational Expressions

Formulas

a^m / a^n = a^{m-n}
x^{-n} = 1 / x^n for positive exponents

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10