I need help w/ fractional powers: (16^-1/2 + 4^-3/2)^2

[marinesgirl]

Hope this is the right place!

My problem is (16^-1/2 + 4^-3/2)^2

I can't for the life of me remember how to figure the fractions as powers. Sorry if I am not asking in the right manner or forum, but I'm a bit lost.

If anyone could even tell me what this is called, I will look in other places.

Thank you so much!!

 

[stapel]

I can't for the life of me remember how to figure the fractions as powers.

To find lessons on exponent rules, try a search engine! :wink:

. . . . .Google results for "fractional exponents"

Have fun!

Eliz.

P.S. Welcome to FreeMathHelp!

 

[Loren]

>My problem is (16^-1/2 + 4^-3/2)^2

16^(-1/2) = 1/(16^(1/2)) = 1/4. Remember that 16^(1/2) is "square root of 16".

That should get you started.

 

[Loren]

>My problem is (16^-1/2 + 4^-3/2)^2

I just learned how to respond in a better manner than my last post. Try this.

16^(-1/2) = \(\displaystyle 16^{-1/2}\) = \(\displaystyle \frac{1}{16^{1/2}\)=\(\displaystyle \frac{1}{\sqrt{16}}\)=\(\displaystyle \frac{1}{4}\)