Question 170223
Seems your question is in regard to using implied multiplication in syntax or using a multiplication symbol (for example 3*4=12) (5b=5*b) (course we don't say 54=5*4 unless defined only have 0 to 9 in use and using implied multiplication then 67=6*7).The question here is are we not saying we are not using implied multiplication since say (-1)*t^..ETC,meaning then the exponent is -2 and have therefore -1/t^2 WHERE OF COURSE UNDERSTOOD t^-2 THE '-SIGN' NOT ALGEBRA OPERATOR BUT SYMBOL USED TO DENOTE RECIPROCAL (t^2)-1=1/t^2.If did have implied mulltiplication t^-x would be 1/t^1*x=(1/t^1)*x=x/t. Problem if using implied multiplication and wanted exponent to be -x=-1*x and said have t^(-x) ,there is a standard symbol named superscript which example of use is 5^(3) =5!/(5-3)! where note that is not algebra - operator but more like what most may think - is.So when see b=x/y and a^b understand did not want to say a^(x/y) also did not want to say (a^x)^(1/y)or (a^x)^(y^-1).Course if want an exponent b*c could do (a^b)^c.Did I correctlly assume your question was in regard to syntax so all would read the same? Hope helps you .Course remember I am not  saying there is any worth in any of this except standard simple knowledge in country where who cares what you know?And I've heard for example POE  died broke in jail.yours truly M. Ali ( just for fun won't check my typing anymore just post  see if you find errors?)