Question

Simplify expression. Use positive exponents.

Answer 1

@iGreen ?

Answer 2

Subtract the exponents.

\(\dfrac{a^4}{a} \rightarrow a^{4 - 1} \rightarrow~?\)

\(\dfrac{b^{-3}}{b^{-2}} \rightarrow b^{-3 - (-2)} \rightarrow~?\)

Remember, 'a' has an exponent of '1'.

Answer 3

@Jonnychewy

Answer 4

Oh, and also, we can only subtract exponents of like terms..meaning we can't subtract \(b^{-3}\) with \(a\), because \(b\) and \(a\) are different terms.