Describe how to simplify the expression 3^-6/3^-4

a. Divide the bases and then add the exponents.
b. Keep the base the same and then add the exponents.
c. Multiply the bases and then subtract the exponents.
d. Keep the base the same and then subtract the exponents.

Respuesta :

Answer:

The correct option is d. To simplify the given expression we should keep the base the same and then subtract the exponents.

Step-by-step explanation:

The given expression is

[tex]\frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}}[/tex]

In the above expression we have common base 3 but the exponents are different.

According to the rule of exponent, if the numerator and denominator have same base and different exponent, then the base remains the same and the exponent of denominator subtracted from exponent of numerator.

[tex]\frac{a^m}{a^n} =a^{m-n}[/tex]

Use this rule in the given expression.

[tex]\frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}}=3^{-6-(-4)}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{3^{-6}}{3^{-4}}=3^{-2}[/tex]

Therefore the correct option is d.