While simplifying some math work, Peter wrote on his paper that x^3 • x^3 • x^3 • x^3 equaled x^3+ ^3 + ^3 +^3 . Did Peter simplify his work correctly and completely to a final answer? Would Peter’s work be the same if he were to simplify x^3 + x^3 + x^3 + x^3?

Question

anonymous · Answer

I know the formula is a^m * a^n = a ^m + ^n. Though I think that something like x^3 = x * x *x right so x^3 + ^3 + ^3 +^3 would be correct right?

anonymous · Answer

can you write exponents with no base?

anonymous · Answer

I don't think so? the base would be x right?

zepdrix · Answer

issy, yes you have the right idea.
x^3 • x^3 • x^3 • x^3 = x^{3+ 3 + 3 +3}
^(I'm assuming this is what it's supposed to look like?)

`Did peter simplify his work correctly?` yes.
`and completely?` no.

It can be further simplified, do you see how?

anonymous · Answer

completely would be x^12 right?

zepdrix · Answer

yah looks good :)

anonymous · Answer

and its asking if the work would be the same if it was simplified and I think it would right?

anonymous · Answer

$$x^{3+3+3+3}$$
this one is equivalent so if x^3 +^3 +^3 +^3
is like this then it's a correct simplification

zepdrix · Answer

The next part is something different,$$\Large x^3+x^3+x^3+x^3 \quad=\quad?$$

anonymous · Answer

x^3 +^3+^3+^3 = x^12 right?

anonymous · Answer

so his answer would be the same if he simplified it more right?

zepdrix · Answer

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