Simplify (2×a/3)² : Squared Fraction Expression Solution

Exponent Rules with Fraction Expressions

Insert the corresponding expression:

(2×a3)2= \left(\frac{2\times a}{3}\right)^2=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:08 Let's simplify this problem together.
00:11 According to the laws of exponents, when a fraction is raised to power N, we raise both the numerator and denominator to N.
00:19 We'll apply this rule to solve our exercise.
00:23 Now, if a product is raised to power N, each part of the product is raised to N separately.
00:29 So let's use this rule in our exercise too.
00:32 First, we'll calculate 2 to the power of 2, which is 4, and add it to our expression.
00:38 Next, we calculate 3 to the power of 2, which is 9, and put it in our expression.
00:45 And there we have it! This is the solution to our problem. Great job!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Insert the corresponding expression:

(2×a3)2= \left(\frac{2\times a}{3}\right)^2=

2

Step-by-step solution

The task is to simplify (2×a3)2\left(\frac{2\times a}{3}\right)^2.

First, applying the exponent rule for fractions, (bc)n=bncn\left(\frac{b}{c}\right)^n = \frac{b^n}{c^n}, we have:

  • (2×a3)2=(2×a)232\left(\frac{2\times a}{3}\right)^2 = \frac{(2 \times a)^2}{3^2} - which represents performing the exponentiation separately on the numerator and denominator.

Now, simplify each part:

  • The numerator: (2×a)2=22×a2=4×a2(2 \times a)^2 = 2^2 \times a^2 = 4 \times a^2.
  • The denominator: 32=93^2 = 9.

Thus, the expression simplifies to 4×a29\frac{4 \times a^2}{9}.

We ensure the valid transformations based on the choices provided:

  • Choice 1: 4×a29\frac{4\times a^2}{9}, which matches what we calculated.
  • Choice 2: 22×a232\frac{2^2\times a^2}{3^2}, which is an equivalent form before final multiplication.
  • Choice 3: (2×a)232\frac{\left(2\times a\right)^2}{3^2}, presenting the step before breaking down the (2a)2 (2a)^2 .
  • Choice 4: "All answers are correct", recognizing all transformations as valid.

Therefore, each choice represents correct steps or forms towards the simplified expression.

The correct answer is: All answers are correct.

3

Final Answer

All answers are correct

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Fraction Power Rule: Apply exponent to both numerator and denominator separately
  • Technique: (2a3)2=(2a)232=4a29 \left(\frac{2a}{3}\right)^2 = \frac{(2a)^2}{3^2} = \frac{4a^2}{9}
  • Check: All equivalent forms are valid: factored, expanded, or intermediate steps ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Squaring only part of the fraction
    Don't square just the numerator or just the denominator = incomplete application! This gives wrong expressions like (2a)23 \frac{(2a)^2}{3} instead of the correct (2a)232 \frac{(2a)^2}{3^2} . Always apply the exponent to the entire fraction using (ab)n=anbn \left(\frac{a}{b}\right)^n = \frac{a^n}{b^n} .

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 112^0=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why are there multiple correct answers for this problem?

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All the given expressions represent different stages of simplification! (2a)232 \frac{(2a)^2}{3^2} , 22×a232 \frac{2^2 \times a^2}{3^2} , and 4a29 \frac{4a^2}{9} are all mathematically equivalent.

Do I have to fully simplify the expression?

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Not always! Sometimes showing your work step-by-step is more important. 22×a232 \frac{2^2 \times a^2}{3^2} shows you applied the power rule correctly, even if it's not fully simplified.

How do I handle the exponent on a product like (2a)²?

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Use the product power rule: (xy)n=xnyn (xy)^n = x^n \cdot y^n . So (2a)2=22a2=4a2 (2a)^2 = 2^2 \cdot a^2 = 4a^2 .

What's the difference between (2a)² and 2a²?

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Big difference! (2a)2=4a2 (2a)^2 = 4a^2 because you square both 2 and a. But 2a2 2a^2 means only the a is squared, so it equals 2a2 2 \cdot a^2 .

Can I check my answer by substituting a number for 'a'?

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Absolutely! Try a=2 a = 2 : (2×23)2=(43)2=169 \left(\frac{2 \times 2}{3}\right)^2 = \left(\frac{4}{3}\right)^2 = \frac{16}{9} . Using your simplified form: 4×229=169 \frac{4 \times 2^2}{9} = \frac{16}{9}

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