OK, have some Algebra 2 equations I can't do...

[1cat2ferrets]

1. Simplify this one:

-x^2y^2/x^1/2y^0

2. write in exponential form and simplify:

cubed root of "a" * fifth root of "a" =?

3. Is this one correct?
cubed root of x^5y^5= (x^5y^5)^1/3= x^5/3y^5/3..or can it be simplified more?

TIA!

[kiana]

1. I'm having a slight bit of trouble understanding your notation -- is it (-x^2)(y^2)/(x^(1/2))(y^0)? If not -- ignore what I say next.

Recall that dividing by x^(1/2) is the same as multiplying by x^(-1/2). Also recall that y^0 = 1. So this fraction can be converted into (-x^2)(y^2)(x^(-1/2)). Then combine the x's by adding the exponents, and you have (-x^(3/2))(y^2). If you need to continue further (i.e. convert to radical form), then x^(3/2) = x^(2/2+1/2) = x(x^1/2) = x * sqrt x.

2. To convert nth roots to exponents, use a^1/n. So you have a^(1/3) * a^(1/5). Then you can combine them by adding the exponents, so you end up with a^(8/15).

3. It can be simplified more. x^(5/3) = x(3/3 + 2/3) = (x^1)x^(2/3) = x * cube root of x^2, and y simplifies similarly.

[1cat2ferrets]

Yes, you interpreted #1 correctly.

Thank a bunch for your help.