Problem 24 - College Algebra Essentials

Question

Simplify each exponential expression. $$x y^{-3}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The simplified form of the expression \(x y^{-3}\) is \( \frac{x}{y^3} \).

Step 1: Identify the Expression

We need to evaluate or simplify: \(x y^{-3}\).

Step 2: Apply Order of Operations

Following the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), we simplify the expression step by step, handling parentheses, exponents, multiplication/division, then addition/subtraction.

Step 3: Compute the Result

Carrying out the operations systematically, we arrive at the result.

Step 4: State the Result

The simplified form of the expression \(x y^{-3}\) is \( \frac{x}{y^3} \).