Math Problem Statement

Let a be a positive real number. Simplify the expression: (a^(-3) / a^(-2))^(-1/2).

Solution

The problem in the image asks for the simplification of the expression:

(a3a2)12\left( \frac{a^{-3}}{a^{-2}} \right)^{-\frac{1}{2}}

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Simplify the fraction inside the parentheses: a3a2=a3(2)=a3+2=a1\frac{a^{-3}}{a^{-2}} = a^{-3 - (-2)} = a^{-3 + 2} = a^{-1}

  2. Now the expression is: (a1)12(a^{-1})^{-\frac{1}{2}}

  3. Apply the power rule (xm)n=xmn(x^m)^n = x^{m \cdot n}: a112=a12a^{-1 \cdot -\frac{1}{2}} = a^{\frac{1}{2}}

Thus, the simplified expression is a12a^{\frac{1}{2}}.

The correct answer is: B. a1/2a^{1/2}

Would you like more details on any of these steps or have any other questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. What is the general rule for simplifying expressions with negative exponents?
  2. How would the simplification change if the exponents were positive initially?
  3. What happens when an expression with fractional exponents is raised to a negative power?
  4. How do you simplify a more complex expression like (aman)p\left(\frac{a^m}{a^n}\right)^p?
  5. How can we interpret fractional exponents geometrically?

Tip: When dealing with exponents, remember that dividing powers of the same base is equivalent to subtracting the exponents.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponents
Algebra

Formulas

Power of a quotient: (a^m / a^n) = a^(m - n)
Power of a power: (a^m)^n = a^(m * n)

Theorems

Exponent rules

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10