Simplify the expression within the parentheses first

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 48 views

Understanding the Problem

When dealing with expressions involving exponents and fractions, it's essential to simplify them step by step to arrive at the final result. In this case, we're given the expression $\left(\frac{4}{3^3}\right)^2$ , and our goal is to simplify it.

Breaking Down the Expression

To simplify the given expression, we need to start by evaluating the exponent within the parentheses. The expression $\frac{4}{3^3}$ can be simplified by first calculating the value of $3^3$ .

Calculating $3^3$

$3^3$ is equal to $3 \times 3 \times 3$ , which equals $27$ . Therefore, the expression $\frac{4}{3^3}$ becomes $\frac{4}{27}$ .

Simplifying the Expression

Now that we have simplified the expression within the parentheses, we can focus on the exponent outside the parentheses. The expression $\left(\frac{4}{27}\right)^2$ can be simplified by squaring the fraction.

Squaring a Fraction

When squaring a fraction, we need to square both the numerator and the denominator. In this case, the numerator is $4$ , and the denominator is $27$ .

Squaring the Numerator and Denominator

Squaring the numerator $4$ gives us $4^2 = 16$ . Squaring the denominator $27$ gives us $27^2 = 729$ . Therefore, the expression $\left(\frac{4}{27}\right)^2$ becomes $\frac{16}{729}$ .

Final Result

After simplifying the expression step by step, we arrive at the final result: $\frac{16}{729}$ .

Conclusion

Simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions requires careful attention to detail and a step-by-step approach. By breaking down the expression into manageable parts and simplifying each part, we can arrive at the final result. In this case, the expression $\left(\frac{4}{3^3}\right)^2$ simplifies to $\frac{16}{729}$ .

Additional Tips and Tricks

When dealing with expressions involving exponents and fractions, here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Simplify the expression within the parentheses first: Before dealing with the exponent outside the parentheses, make sure to simplify the expression within the parentheses.
Square the numerator and denominator separately: When squaring a fraction, make sure to square both the numerator and the denominator separately.
Use the order of operations: When simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions, make sure to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS): Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, and Addition and Subtraction.

Real-World Applications

Simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including:

Mathematics: Simplifying expressions is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it's essential for solving equations and inequalities.
Science: Simplifying expressions is crucial in scientific calculations, particularly in physics and engineering.
Finance: Simplifying expressions is essential in financial calculations, particularly in investment and risk analysis.

Final Thoughts

Simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions requires patience, attention to detail, and a step-by-step approach. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can simplify even the most complex expressions and arrive at the final result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the first step in simplifying the expression $\left(\frac{4}{3^3}\right)^2$ ?

A: The first step in simplifying the expression is to evaluate the exponent within the parentheses, which is $3^3$ . This can be simplified to $27$ .

Q: How do I simplify the expression $\frac{4}{27}$ ?

A: To simplify the expression $\frac{4}{27}$ , you can simply write it as $\frac{4}{27}$ , as it is already in its simplest form.

Q: What is the next step in simplifying the expression $\left(\frac{4}{27}\right)^2$ ?

A: The next step in simplifying the expression is to square the fraction. This involves squaring both the numerator and the denominator.

Q: How do I square a fraction?

A: To square a fraction, you need to square both the numerator and the denominator. For example, if you have the fraction $\frac{a}{b}$ , squaring it would give you $\frac{a^2}{b^2}$ .

Q: What is the final result of simplifying the expression $\left(\frac{4}{27}\right)^2$ ?

A: The final result of simplifying the expression $\left(\frac{4}{27}\right)^2$ is $\frac{16}{729}$ .

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions include:

Not following the order of operations: Make sure to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS): Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, and Addition and Subtraction.
Not simplifying the expression within the parentheses first: Make sure to simplify the expression within the parentheses before dealing with the exponent outside the parentheses.
Not squaring the numerator and denominator separately: When squaring a fraction, make sure to square both the numerator and the denominator separately.

Q: What are some real-world applications of simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions?

A: Some real-world applications of simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions include:

Mathematics: Simplifying expressions is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it's essential for solving equations and inequalities.
Science: Simplifying expressions is crucial in scientific calculations, particularly in physics and engineering.
Finance: Simplifying expressions is essential in financial calculations, particularly in investment and risk analysis.

Q: How can I practice simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions?

A: You can practice simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions by:

Working through practice problems: Try working through practice problems to get a feel for simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions.
Using online resources: There are many online resources available that can help you practice simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions.
Seeking help from a tutor or teacher: If you're struggling to simplify expressions involving exponents and fractions, consider seeking help from a tutor or teacher.

Conclusion

Simplifying expressions involving exponents and fractions can be a challenging task, but with practice and patience, you can become proficient in simplifying even the most complex expressions. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can simplify expressions involving exponents and fractions and arrive at the final result.