Math Problem Statement

Write the expression using positive exponents: (5^(-3))/(7^(-8))

Solution

The problem shown asks to "Write the expression using positive exponents" for the following expression:

5378\frac{5^{-3}}{7^{-8}}

To rewrite this expression using only positive exponents, follow these steps:

  1. When a term has a negative exponent, you can move it from the numerator to the denominator or from the denominator to the numerator, changing the exponent to positive. Specifically: an=1ana^{-n} = \frac{1}{a^n} and 1an=an\frac{1}{a^{-n}} = a^n

  2. Apply this rule to the given expression: 5378=7853\frac{5^{-3}}{7^{-8}} = \frac{7^8}{5^3}

So the expression with positive exponents is: 7853\frac{7^8}{5^3}

Would you like further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. How do you simplify expressions with negative exponents?
  2. What happens if both the numerator and denominator have the same base with negative exponents?
  3. How would you handle an expression with mixed positive and negative exponents?
  4. Can you apply this rule to more complex fractions with negative exponents?
  5. What are some common mistakes when dealing with negative exponents?

Tip: Always remember that a negative exponent simply indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the corresponding positive exponent.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponents
Negative Exponents
Simplification

Formulas

a^(-n) = 1/(a^n)
(1/a^(-n)) = a^n

Theorems

Exponent Rules
Reciprocal Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9