Evaluate (3/8)^(-5): Negative Exponents with Fractions

Question

Insert the corresponding expression:

(38)5= \left(\frac{3}{8}\right)^{-5}=

Video Solution

Solution Steps

00:08 Let's simplify this problem together.
00:11 Remember, when a fraction is raised to a negative power, it's the same as raising its reciprocal to a positive power.
00:18 We'll use this rule to solve our exercise.
00:21 First, let's flip the fraction.
00:24 Then, we'll raise it to the positive power instead.
00:27 That's how we find the solution!

Step-by-Step Solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Identify the given fraction and the negative exponent.
  • Step 2: Apply the conversion rule from negative to positive exponents on fractions.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: The given expression is (38)5 \left(\frac{3}{8}\right)^{-5} . This indicates a fraction raised to a negative power.
Step 2: Applying the rule (ab)n=(ba)n(\frac{a}{b})^{-n} = (\frac{b}{a})^{n}, we invert the fraction and change the exponent to positive. This gives us the expression (83)5 \left(\frac{8}{3}\right)^5 .

Therefore, the solution to the problem is (83)5 \left(\frac{8}{3}\right)^5 .

Answer

(83)5 \left(\frac{8}{3}\right)^5