Describe how to simplify the expression [tex]\(\frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}}\)[/tex].

A. Divide the bases and then add the exponents.
B. Keep the base the same and then add the exponents.
C. Multiply the bases and then subtract the exponents.
D. Keep the base the same and then subtract the exponents.



Answer :

To simplify the expression [tex]\(\frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}}\)[/tex], follow these steps:

1. Identify the base and the exponents:
In the given expression, the base is 3, the numerator has an exponent of -6, and the denominator has an exponent of -4.

2. Recall the property of exponents for division:
When you divide two powers with the same base, you subtract the exponent of the denominator from the exponent of the numerator. This property can be written as:
[tex]\[ \frac{a^m}{a^n} = a^{m-n} \][/tex]

3. Apply the property to the given expression:
[tex]\[ \frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}} = 3^{-6 - (-4)} \][/tex]

4. Simplify the exponent:
Calculate [tex]\(-6 - (-4)\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[ -6 - (-4) = -6 + 4 = -2 \][/tex]

5. Write the simplified expression:
[tex]\[ \frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}} = 3^{-2} \][/tex]

6. Find the value of the simplified expression:
Raising 3 to the power of -2 means taking the reciprocal of 3 squared. We express this as:
[tex]\[ 3^{-2} = \frac{1}{3^2} = \frac{1}{9} \][/tex]

Therefore, the simplified expression is [tex]\(3^{-2}\)[/tex] and its value is [tex]\(\frac{1}{9}\)[/tex], which is approximately [tex]\(0.1111111111111111\)[/tex].

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