The Rule of Multiplication of Exponents

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 30 views

Introduction

In algebra, simplifying expressions is a crucial skill that helps in solving equations and manipulating mathematical statements. One of the fundamental concepts in algebra is the exponentiation of variables, which is represented by the power of a number or variable. In this article, we will focus on simplifying the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$, which involves the multiplication of two variables with different exponents.

Understanding Exponents

Before we dive into simplifying the expression, it's essential to understand the concept of exponents. An exponent is a small number that is written above and to the right of a variable or a number. It represents the power to which the variable or number is raised. For example, in the expression $$x^5$$, the exponent 5 represents the power to which the variable x is raised.

The Rule of Multiplication of Exponents

When multiplying two variables with the same base, we can add their exponents. This rule is known as the rule of multiplication of exponents. For example, in the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$, both variables have the same base x, so we can add their exponents 5 and 7.

Simplifying the Expression

Now that we have understood the concept of exponents and the rule of multiplication of exponents, let's simplify the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$. Using the rule of multiplication of exponents, we can add the exponents 5 and 7, which gives us:

x^{5+7} = x^{12}

Therefore, the simplified expression is $$x^{12}$$.

Example and Practice

Let's consider an example to practice simplifying expressions with exponents. Suppose we have the expression $$x^3 \cdot x^4$$. Using the rule of multiplication of exponents, we can add the exponents 3 and 4, which gives us:

x^{3+4} = x^7

Therefore, the simplified expression is $$x^7$$.

Real-World Applications

Simplifying expressions with exponents has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and economics. For instance, in physics, the concept of exponents is used to describe the behavior of physical systems, such as the motion of objects under the influence of gravity or friction. In engineering, exponents are used to describe the behavior of electrical circuits and mechanical systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, simplifying the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$ involves understanding the concept of exponents and the rule of multiplication of exponents. By adding the exponents 5 and 7, we can simplify the expression to $$x^{12}$$. This concept has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and economics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the rule of multiplication of exponents? A: The rule of multiplication of exponents states that when multiplying two variables with the same base, we can add their exponents.
Q: How do we simplify the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$? A: We can simplify the expression by adding the exponents 5 and 7, which gives us $$x^{12}$$.
Q: What are the real-world applications of simplifying expressions with exponents? A: Simplifying expressions with exponents has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and economics.

References

[1] Algebra: A Comprehensive Introduction by Michael Artin
[2] Calculus: Early Transcendentals by James Stewart
[3] Mathematics for Computer Science by Eric Lehman and Tom Leighton

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed the concept of simplifying expressions with exponents, focusing on the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$. We learned that by adding the exponents 5 and 7, we can simplify the expression to $$x^{12}$$. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive Q&A guide to help you understand and apply the concept of simplifying expressions with exponents.

Q&A Guide

Q: What is the rule of multiplication of exponents?

A: The rule of multiplication of exponents states that when multiplying two variables with the same base, we can add their exponents.

Q: How do we simplify the expression $$x^5 \cdot x^7$$?

A: We can simplify the expression by adding the exponents 5 and 7, which gives us $$x^{12}$$.

Q: What are the real-world applications of simplifying expressions with exponents?

A: Simplifying expressions with exponents has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and economics.

Q: Can we simplify expressions with exponents that have different bases?

A: No, we cannot simplify expressions with exponents that have different bases. The rule of multiplication of exponents only applies to expressions with the same base.

Q: How do we simplify expressions with exponents that have negative exponents?

A: To simplify expressions with exponents that have negative exponents, we can use the rule of negative exponents, which states that $$x^{-n} = \frac{1}{x^n}$$.

Q: Can we simplify expressions with exponents that have fractional exponents?

A: Yes, we can simplify expressions with exponents that have fractional exponents. For example, $$x^{\frac{1}{2}} = \sqrt{x}$$.

Q: How do we simplify expressions with exponents that have complex exponents?

A: To simplify expressions with exponents that have complex exponents, we can use the rule of complex exponents, which states that $$x^{a+bi} = x^a \cdot e^{b \ln x}$$.

Q: Can we simplify expressions with exponents that have multiple variables?

A: Yes, we can simplify expressions with exponents that have multiple variables. For example, $$x^5 \cdot y^3 = x^5 \cdot y^3$$.

Q: How do we simplify expressions with exponents that have variables with different bases?

A: To simplify expressions with exponents that have variables with different bases, we cannot use the rule of multiplication of exponents. Instead, we can use the rule of division of exponents, which states that $$\frac{x^m}{xn} = x^{m-n}$$.

Example Problems

Problem 1

Simplify the expression $$x^3 \cdot x^4$$.

A: Using the rule of multiplication of exponents, we can add the exponents 3 and 4, which gives us $$x^{3+4} = x^7$$.

Problem 2

Simplify the expression $$x^{-2} \cdot x^3$$.

A: Using the rule of negative exponents, we can rewrite the expression as $$\frac{1}{x^2} \cdot x^3 = \frac{x^3}{x2} = x^{3-2} = x^1 = x$$.

Problem 3

Simplify the expression $$x^{\frac{1}{2}} \cdot x^{\frac{1}{3}}$$.

A: Using the rule of fractional exponents, we can multiply the exponents, which gives us $$x^{\frac{1}{2} + \frac{1}{3}} = x^{\frac{5}{6}}$$.

Conclusion

In conclusion, simplifying expressions with exponents is a crucial skill that has numerous real-world applications in various fields. By understanding the rule of multiplication of exponents and applying it to different types of expressions, we can simplify complex expressions and solve problems with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the rule of multiplication of exponents? A: The rule of multiplication of exponents states that when multiplying two variables with the same base, we can add their exponents.
Q: How do we simplify expressions with exponents that have different bases? A: We cannot simplify expressions with exponents that have different bases. The rule of multiplication of exponents only applies to expressions with the same base.
Q: How do we simplify expressions with exponents that have negative exponents? A: We can use the rule of negative exponents, which states that $$x^{-n} = \frac{1}{x^n}$$.

References

[1] Algebra: A Comprehensive Introduction by Michael Artin
[2] Calculus: Early Transcendentals by James Stewart
[3] Mathematics for Computer Science by Eric Lehman and Tom Leighton