EXPONENTIAL RULES - Rule 2

Rule 2: To divide identical bases, subtract the exponents.

Example 1: can be written

which can be written as

or

The later can also be written . According to Rule 2, you can get to the answer directly by subtracting the exponents

Example 2: can be written . According to Rule 2, the expression can be simplify to

Example 3: Simplify . You cannot simplify this expression where the answer will be 5 to some exponent or 7 to some exponent because Rule 2 states that the bases must be equal. The base in the numerator is 5 and the base in the denominator is 7. The only way to simplify the fraction is approximate the decimal answer with your calculator.

If you would like to see another example lick on Example.

Work the following problems. Click on Answer if you want to check your answer and review the solution.

Problem 1: Simplify .

Answer

Problem 2: Simplify .

Answer

Problem 3: Simplify

Answer

Problem 4: Simplify

Answer

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