Q1. Exponents

Question

Which of the following expressions is a simplified form of (–2x ²)⁴?

(A) 16x⁸

(B) 8x⁶

(C) –8x⁸

(D) –16x⁶

(E) –16x⁸

Explanation

Raise both the coefficient –2 and variable x2 to the power of 4. When raising an exponent to a power, multiply together the exponents:

(–2x²)⁴= (–2)⁴x⁽²⁾⁽⁴⁾= 16x⁸

Lesson

Know MADSPM for exponents (Multiply-Add-Divide-Subtract-Power-Multiply)

• When you are multiplying exponents, you're actually adding them.

  • Example: X⁵*X²= X⁷

• When you are dividing exponents, you're actually subtracting them.

  • Example: X⁵/ X²= X³

• When you are asked for one exponent to the power of another, you're actually multiplying them.

  • Example: (X⁵)² = X¹⁰

Want more practice questions? Check out the Worthington Prep SAT Tutoring Questions page.