To begin, let’s first understand the rules for simplifying expressions with fractions. When adding or subtracting fractions with a common denominator, you simply add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same. For example, 3/4 + 1/4 = 4/4 = 1. Similarly, when multiplying fractions, you multiply the numerators together and the denominators together. So, 1/2 x 3/4 = 3/8.
Now, let’s move on to expressions involving powers. When multiplying powers with the same base, you add the exponents. For instance, x^2 * x^3 = x^(2+3) = x^5. On the other hand, when dividing powers with the same base, you subtract the exponents. So, x^4 / x^2 = x^(4-2) = x^2.
Now that we have a basic understanding of fractions and powers individually, let’s combine them in an expression. Consider the expression (1/2)^3. To solve this expression, we need to raise the numerator and denominator to the power of 3 separately. (1/2)^3 = 1^3/2^3 = 1/8. Thus, the expression simplifies to 1/8.
Let’s take a more complex example: (3/4)^2 * (2/3)^3. Here, we will apply the rules of simplifying both fractions and powers simultaneously. First, let’s simplify the fractions individually. (3/4)^2 = 9/16 and (2/3)^3 = 8/27.
Now, let’s multiply these simplified fractions together. 9/16 * 8/27 = (9*8)/(16*27) = 72/432. Now, we can simplify this fraction further by finding the greatest common divisor. 72 and 432 are both divisible by 8, so we can simplify the expression to 9/54.
However, we can simplify this fraction even further. Both 9 and 54 are divisible by 9. So, we get 1/6 as our final simplified expression.
When dealing with expressions involving both fractions and powers, it’s essential to understand the order of operations. In general, brackets should be the first to be solved, followed by any exponents or powers, then multiplication or division, and finally addition or subtraction. Remembering this order will help you simplify the expression correctly.
In conclusion, simplifying and solving expressions involving fractions and powers may seem complicated initially. However, by understanding the rules and applying them step by step, you can simplify even complex expressions with ease. Practice is key to mastering this subject, so do not hesitate to try out different examples and seek additional guidance if needed. With time and effort, you will become proficient in handling expressions with fractions and powers efficiently.