Exponents and Variables: Negative Exponents and Negative Bases

A negative exponent is the reciprocal of that number with a positive exponent.

-  To simplify a negative exponent, make the power positive!
-  The parenthesis is important! is not the same as


Examples:
Example 1.  Simplify.
Solution: Use negative exponent’s rule:
Now use exponent’s rule:
Then:

Example 2.  Simplify.
Solution: Use negative exponent’s rule:
Now use exponent’s rule:

Example 3.  Simplify.
Solution: Use negative exponent’s rule:
Now use exponent’s rule:
Then: