Home > Algebra > Simplification of Radical Expressions

Simplify #(16x^4)^(-3/4)# using only positive exponents?

Answer 1

Julia Adams

#1/(8x^3)#

#(16x^4)^(-3/4)#

There are a few things going on here so let's do them one at a time.

The negative sign in the exponent

#x^-1=1/x#

So let's rewrite our expression:

#(16x^4)^(-3/4)=1/(16x^4)^(3/4)#

Taking the 4th root

Next let's note that #16=2^4# and so we can write:

#1/(16x^4)^(3/4)=1/(2^4x^4)^(3/4)#

and from here we can take the 4th root:

#1/(2^4x^4)^(3/4)=1/(2x)^3#

Cube the denominator

#1/(2x)^3=1/(8x^3)#

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

Trending questions

Not the question you need?

HIX Tutor

Solve ANY homework problem with a smart AI

98% accuracy study help
Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
Step-by-step, in-depth guides
Readily available 24/7