Perform all indicated operations, and write each answer with positive integer exponents. {x- 9y^-1}/{ (x-3y^-1)(x+3y^-1)}
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Rewrite the expression with positive exponents: becomes .
Multiply the numerator and the denominator by to eliminate the negative exponents: .
Simplify the expression: .
Recognize the denominator as a difference of squares: .
Simplify the denominator: .
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Expressions
Rational expressions are fractions where the numerator and the denominator are polynomials. Understanding how to manipulate these expressions, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, is crucial for solving problems involving them. In this case, the expression involves simplifying a fraction with polynomial terms in both the numerator and denominator.
Exponent rules govern how to handle powers of numbers and variables. Key rules include the product of powers, quotient of powers, and power of a power. In this problem, applying these rules correctly is essential for simplifying terms with negative exponents and ensuring all final answers are expressed with positive integer exponents.
Factoring polynomials involves rewriting a polynomial as a product of its factors. This is important for simplifying rational expressions, as it can help identify common factors in the numerator and denominator. In the given expression, recognizing how to factor the denominator will aid in simplifying the overall expression effectively.