SOLUTION: Use the exponent rule to simplify the expression. Assume the variables represent nonzero real numbers. (m^5n)^-8 ----------- - m^-20n^8

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Question 721629: Use the exponent rule to simplify the expression. Assume the variables represent nonzero real numbers.
(m^5n)^-8
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m^-20n^8
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
multiply the exponents inside the brackets by -8
%28m%5E5n%29%5E-8%2F%28m%5E-20n%5E8%29 = %28m%5E-40n%5E-8%29%2F%28m%5E-20n%5E8%29
combine like terms in a manner that will give us positive exponents
1%2F%28m%5E%28%28-20%2B40%29%29n%5E%28%288%2B8%29%29%29 = 1%2F%28m%5E20n%5E16%29