# simplifying expressions w/ zero, negative exponents

#### Mathgirl22

##### New member
OK I really don't get it !!Help !!

Here are a few examples of my problems !!!

Simplify

8a(-3)b(2)c(-2) * ()= Exponent

xy(-3)

Write as a decimal
10(-5)

Simplify
3m(-4)/n(-8)

#### Loren

##### Senior Member
You need to review the Rules of Exponents. Among them will be the definition for a term with a negative exponent. It will be something like ...

$$\displaystyle a^{-x}=\frac{1}{a^x}$$.

Example:

$$\displaystyle \frac{a^{-3}b^2}{c^{-4}}=\frac{b^2c^4}{a^3}$$

...if you want to have all positive exponents.

#### Mathgirl22

##### New member
I get it after talking to my friend in trig sooo loike xy(-3) Would be x over y raised to the 3rd power right ????

#### stapel

##### Super Moderator
Staff member
Mathgirl22 said:
I get it after talking to my friend in trig sooo loike xy(-3) Would be x over y raised to the 3rd power right ????
I'm not sure what the above means...?

If you are referring to the second of your four originally-posted exercises, and if you are asking if $$\displaystyle \frac{x}{y^3}$$ is the correct simplification, then the answer would be "yes".

If you mean something else, please reply (in standard English) with clarification. Thank you!

Eliz.