Page 213 - Algebra 1

Example
1
Simplifying Expressions with Negative Exponents
Simplify each expression. All variables represent nonzero real numbers. a. x-3
SOLUTION
x-3 = _1 x3
y-4 _
Write with only positive exponents.
Write with only positive exponents.
Write with only positive exponents.
b.
x2 SOLUTION
y-4 ___
1
x2 = x2 · y4 = x2y4
c. _1 w-4
SOLUTION
_1 = w4 w-4
1
Example
2
Evaluating Expressions with Negative and Zero Exponents
Evaluate each expression for a = -2 and b = -3.
Caution
When working through problems, you may incorrectly replace b0 with 0 instead of 1.
Online Connection www.SaxonMathResources.com
a. a2b0 SOLUTION
a2b0
= a2 · 1 = a2
= (-2)2 =4
b. 3b-3·b
SOLUTION
3b-3 · b = 3b-2
= _3 _b2
=3 (-3)2
= _3 = _1 93
Simplify using the Zero Exponent Property. Multiplicative Identity
Substitute -2 for a.
Simplify.
Product Property of Exponents
Simplify using the Negative Exponent Property.
Substitute -3 for b. Then simplify. Simplify.
198 Saxon Algebra 1