The Properties of Variables

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 29 views

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Introduction

Algebraic expressions are a fundamental concept in mathematics, and simplifying them is an essential skill for students and professionals alike. In this article, we will explore the process of simplifying algebraic expressions, with a focus on the rules of exponents and the properties of variables.

The Rules of Exponents

When simplifying algebraic expressions, it is essential to understand the rules of exponents. The rules of exponents state that when multiplying two or more variables with the same base, we add their exponents. For example, $x^2 \cdot x^3 = x^{2+3} = x^5$ . Similarly, when dividing two or more variables with the same base, we subtract their exponents. For example, $\frac{x^2}{x^3} = x^{2-3} = x^{-1}$ .

The Properties of Variables

Variables are the building blocks of algebraic expressions. When simplifying expressions, it is essential to understand the properties of variables. The properties of variables state that when multiplying two or more variables, we multiply their coefficients and add their exponents. For example, $2x \cdot 3y = 6xy$ . Similarly, when dividing two or more variables, we divide their coefficients and subtract their exponents. For example, $\frac{2x}{3y} = \frac{2}{3} \cdot \frac{x}{y}$ .

Simplifying the Expression

Now that we have a solid understanding of the rules of exponents and the properties of variables, let's simplify the expression $-6x^3 \cdot x \cdot y^2 \cdot y^6$ . To simplify this expression, we will apply the rules of exponents and the properties of variables.

Step 1: Multiply the Coefficients

The first step in simplifying the expression is to multiply the coefficients. In this case, the coefficients are $-6$ and $1$ . Multiplying these coefficients gives us $-6 \cdot 1 = -6$ .

Step 2: Add the Exponents

The next step in simplifying the expression is to add the exponents. In this case, the exponents are $3$ , $1$ , $2$ , and $6$ . Adding these exponents gives us $3 + 1 + 2 + 6 = 12$ .

Step 3: Simplify the Expression

Now that we have multiplied the coefficients and added the exponents, we can simplify the expression. The simplified expression is $-6x^{3+1}y^{2+6} = -6x^4y^8$ .

Conclusion

In conclusion, simplifying algebraic expressions is an essential skill for students and professionals alike. By understanding the rules of exponents and the properties of variables, we can simplify complex expressions with ease. In this article, we simplified the expression $-6x^3 \cdot x \cdot y^2 \cdot y^6$ using the rules of exponents and the properties of variables. The simplified expression is $-6x^4y^8$ .

Final Answer

The final answer is $-6x^4y^8$ . This is the simplified expression that we obtained by applying the rules of exponents and the properties of variables.

Discussion

The discussion of this problem revolves around the rules of exponents and the properties of variables. The rules of exponents state that when multiplying two or more variables with the same base, we add their exponents. The properties of variables state that when multiplying two or more variables, we multiply their coefficients and add their exponents. By understanding these rules and properties, we can simplify complex expressions with ease.

Comparison of Options

Let's compare the simplified expression $-6x^4y^8$ with the options provided:

Option A: $-6x^3 y^8$
Option B: $-6x^2 y^{12}$
Option C: $-6x^4 y^8$
Option D: $-6x^4 y^{12}$

The only option that matches the simplified expression is Option C: $-6x^4 y^8$ .

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct answer is Option C: $-6x^4 y^8$ . This is the simplified expression that we obtained by applying the rules of exponents and the properties of variables.