Question

I don't understand Rational Exponents... could someone explain them to me so I can finish this homework?

Answer 1

What do you need to know?

A rational exponent is just something to the form of \(n^{a/b}\) which is equivalent to
\(\sqrt[b]{n^a}\).

Answer 2

well... i have to divide them and multiply them.... and i'm confused.

Answer 3

There are some basic rules for division and multiplication of exponents.

\[\Large
n^a \times n^b = n^{a+b}
\\\Large
\frac{ n^a}{n^b }=n^{b-a}\]

Answer 4

Sorry, that should be:

\[\Large \frac{n^a}{n^b} = n^{a-b}\]

Answer 5

so... y2/5 x y^3/8= y^27/40?

Answer 6

Not quite. 2/5 + 3/8 = 16/40 + 15/40 = 31/40. But I think you're getting it.

Answer 7

so then y^5/8 / y^1/2 = y^1/8?

Answer 8

That's right.

Answer 9

ok, thank you i think i have it ^^

Answer 10

No problem =)