Question

simplify the following expression

Answer 1

Divide the whole numbers first.

32 / 8 = ?

Answer 2

32 divided by 8 is 4

Answer 3

Yes, now do the like variables.

\(\dfrac{a^3}{a}\)

When we divide like variables with exponents, we subtract the exponents and keep the variable the same.

Answer 4

So what do you get?

Answer 5

3?

Answer 6

No, 'a' actually has an exponent of 1 even though it doesn't show it

Answer 7

so the exponent for a is 1?

Answer 8

Yes

Answer 9

So what's \(\dfrac{a^3}{a}\)?

Answer 10

a3

Answer 11

No.

\(\dfrac{a^3}{a} \rightarrow a^{3 - 1}\)

Answer 12

3 - 1 = ?

Answer 13

oh i thought i divided them. a2

Answer 14

Yep

Answer 15

That's correct..

Answer 16

Now for \(\dfrac{b^2}{b^2}\)

What does that equal?

Answer 17

b

Answer 18

No..2 - 2 doesn't equal 1.

Answer 19

Remember, anything divided by itself is 1..so 'b' cancels out.

Answer 20

Leaving us with:

\(4a^2\)

Answer 21

woot woot!!! thank you!!