SOLUTION: What is {{{16^(-1/2)}}}? how do you solve this problem?

Algebra ->  Exponents-negative-and-fractional -> SOLUTION: What is {{{16^(-1/2)}}}? how do you solve this problem?      Log On


   

Question 80071: What is 16%5E%28-1%2F2%29? how do you solve this problem?
Answer by Edwin McCravy(20060) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

What is 16%5E%28-1%2F2%29? how do you solve this problem?

When you have a negative fraction exponent,

1.  Make it a positive exponent by writing it as the
    reciprocal of the same base with the exponent
    with the opposite sign.

2. Change the positive exponent to a radical form.

3. Simplify if possible.

------------------------------

16%5E%28-1%2F2%29 = 1%2F16%5E%281%2F2%29 = 1%2Fsqrt%2816%29 = 1%2F4 

Edwin