How do you rewrite expressions with rational exponent as radical exponent?

Answer 1

In this tutorial we are going to combine two ideas that have been discussed in earlier tutorials: exponents and radicals. We will look at how to rewrite, simplify and evaluate these expressions that contain rational exponents. What it boils down to is if you have a denominator in your exponent, it is your index or root number. So, if you need to, review radicals covered in Tutorial 37: Radicals. Also, since we are working with fractional exponents and they follow the exact same rules as integer exponents, you will need to be familiar with adding, subtracting, and multiplying them. If fractions get you down you may want to go to Beginning Algebra Tutorial 3: Fractions. To review exponents, you can go to Tutorial 23: Exponents and Scientific Notation Part I andTutorial 24: Exponents and Scientific Notation Part II. Let's move onto rational exponents and roots.

After completing this tutorial, you should be able to:

1. Rewrite a rational exponent in radical notation.
2. Simplify an expression that contains a rational exponent.
3. Use rational exponents to simplify a radical expression.

These are practice problems to help bring you to the next level. It will allow you to check and see if you have an understanding of these types of problems. Math works just like anything else, if you want to get good at it, then you need to practice it. Even the best athletes and musicians had help along the way and lots of practice, practice, practice, to get good at their sport or instrument. In fact there is no such thing as too much practice.

To get the most out of these, you should work the problem out on your own and then check your answer by clicking on the link for the answer/discussion for that problem. At the link you will find the answer as well as any steps that went into finding that answer.