Math Problem Statement
In a math contest, students are asked to solve a challenging problem involving fractions. One of the problems requires them to simplify the expression (-5/9)^6. The contestants need to calculate the value of (-5/9)^6 to proceed to the next round. Find the simplified value of (-5/9)^6 to help the students advance in the competition. Show all work and write your final answer in a complete sentence with appropriate units.
Solution
To solve the expression , we will follow these steps:
Step 1: Simplify the expression by applying the exponent
The given expression is . When raising a fraction to an exponent, both the numerator and the denominator are raised to that exponent:
Step 2: Calculate the powers
-
Calculate :
- Since the exponent is even, will be positive.
- .
-
Calculate :
- .
Step 3: Write the result as a fraction
Now, substitute the calculated values into the fraction:
Final Answer
The simplified value of is .
So, the final answer is: "The simplified value of is ."
Would you like any further details or have any questions?
Here are 5 related questions:
- How would the result change if the exponent were odd instead of even?
- What is the decimal equivalent of the fraction ?
- How can you simplify the expression without calculating the exact value?
- What would the answer be if the fraction were ?
- How does the sign of the base affect the outcome when the exponent is even?
Tip: When raising a negative number to an even power, the result is always positive.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Exponents
Fraction Simplification
Properties of Exponents
Formulas
(a/b)^n = a^n / b^n
(-a)^n = a^n if n is even
Theorems
Exponentiation Rules
Properties of Negative Numbers Raised to Even Powers
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 8-10