Table of contents

0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
2. Graphs of Equations43m
3. Functions2h 17m
4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
5. Rational Functions1h 23m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
8. Conic Sections2h 23m
9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

College Algebra

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

1:20 minutes

Problem 4c

Textbook Question

Determine whether each statement is true or false. If false, correct the right side of the equation. 5^-2 = 1/5^2

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Exponents and Negative Exponents

Exponents represent repeated multiplication of a base number. A negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the absolute value of the exponent. For example, 5^-2 means 1/(5^2), which simplifies to 1/25. Understanding this concept is crucial for evaluating expressions involving negative exponents.

Reciprocal

The reciprocal of a number is defined as 1 divided by that number. For instance, the reciprocal of 5 is 1/5. When dealing with negative exponents, recognizing that a negative exponent signifies taking the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive exponent is essential for correctly interpreting and solving equations.

Equivalence of Expressions

Two expressions are equivalent if they yield the same value for all inputs. In this case, the statement 5^-2 = 1/5^2 is an example of equivalence, as both sides evaluate to 1/25. Understanding how to manipulate and compare expressions is vital for determining the truth of mathematical statements.