These students were asked to simplify the equation: (2 x 3^-4)/5^2
Adams answer: (2 x 5^2)/3^4
Nicks answer: (5^2)/(2 x 3^4)
Shanes answer: (2 x 3^4)/5^2
Answers:
A: Nick is correct because the negative exponent in the numerator moves the whole numerator into the denominator and makes the exponent positive.
B: Shane is correct because all that needs to be done is to make the negative exponents positive.
C: None of these are correct because the students did not add the exponents in the numerator and then subtract exponents since there is division.
D: Adam is correct because the negative exponent moves the base to the other side of the fraction bar and makes the exponent positive.