Math Problem Statement
Power Rule: If a = b then a^n = b^n What does this mean? If both sides of an equation are raised to the same power, then all solutions of the original equation are among the solutions of the new equation To undo Addition, we To undo multiplication, we To undo a square root, we
Solution
The Power Rule states that if two expressions are equal, their powers will also be equal when raised to the same exponent. In other words, if , then , where is any real number. However, this rule is valid under certain conditions; for example, when is an even power, you must ensure that the values are non-negative to avoid introducing extraneous solutions.
Now, addressing the "undo" operations:
-
To undo addition, you perform subtraction.
For example, to solve , subtract 5 from both sides:
, so . -
To undo multiplication, you perform division.
For example, to solve , divide both sides by 4:
, so . -
To undo a square root, you perform squaring.
For example, to solve , square both sides:
, so .
Would you like a more detailed explanation for any of these concepts?
Here are five related questions to expand your understanding:
- Why must we be cautious when raising both sides of an equation to an even power?
- What happens if we incorrectly apply the power rule to an inequality (e.g., )?
- How do you reverse division or subtraction in equations?
- What is the mathematical significance of squaring versus cubing a number?
- Can squaring both sides of an equation introduce extraneous solutions? How can we verify them?
Tip: Always double-check for extraneous solutions after applying the power rule or undoing square roots.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Exponents
Algebra
Inverse Operations
Formulas
Power Rule: If a = b, then a^n = b^n
To undo addition: a + b - b = a
To undo multiplication: a * b / b = a
To undo a square root: (√a)^2 = a
Theorems
Power Rule for Equations
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 7-10