Not sure if my answer is correct...
(x^3zy^-2)/(x^4y-x^3z)
(x^3yz^-2)/(x^3)(xy-z) I factored out the x^3 from the denominator
(yz^-2)/(xy-z) The x^3 canceled out.
y/(z^2)(xy-z) I moved the z^-2 to the denominator, making it z^2.

My question:
Is y/(z^2)(xy-z) the simplified expression, or would I have to multiply the factors in the denominator?

Question

Not sure if my answer is correct...
(x^3zy^-2)/(x^4y-x^3z)
(x^3yz^-2)/(x^3)(xy-z)    I factored out the x^3 from the denominator
(yz^-2)/(xy-z)  The x^3 canceled out.
y/(z^2)(xy-z)  I moved the z^-2 to the denominator, making it z^2.

My question:
Is y/(z^2)(xy-z) the simplified expression, or would I have to multiply the factors in the denominator?

anonymous · Answer

I am confused in your first line you have  zy^-2, but in the second line it changes to yz^-2.

Either way, your solution looks as if it is simplified.

anonymous · Answer

Sorry, it's yz^-2. It was a typo.

anonymous · Answer

Looks good to me.

anonymous · Answer

If you are asked to simplify something, it is better to leave the expression in brackets, as this is the simplest form.... not the multiplication of factors. You only do that if you are asked to expand something.

anonymous · Answer

perfect! that's exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!