SOLUTION: I cannot understand how to do a problem like this. It is simplifying powers. (-2x)(-3xy^2)^2. I am not sure what I multiply together. I know the answer is -18x^3y^4. I am try

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: I cannot understand how to do a problem like this. It is simplifying powers. (-2x)(-3xy^2)^2. I am not sure what I multiply together. I know the answer is -18x^3y^4. I am try      Log On


   

Question 421656: I cannot understand how to do a problem like this. It is simplifying powers.
(-2x)(-3xy^2)^2. I am not sure what I multiply together.
I know the answer is -18x^3y^4. I am trying to review stuff I had done a while back, but cannot figure this out. Thanks in advance for any help and understanding you can offer.
Answer by sudhanshu_kmr(1152) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
(-2x)(-3xy^2)^2
= (-2x)(-3)^2*x^2*(y^2)^2
= (-2x)*9*x^2*y^4
= -2*9*x*x^2*y^4
= -18x^3y^4

always remember......
for (-a)^n if n is even then: a^n
if n is odd then: -a^n

a^x * a^y = a^(x+y)

(a^x)^y = a^(x*y)