Question

algebra 2
5-1 b negative exponents
simplify. your answer should contain only

1. $2p^{-2} \cdot 3p^{-1}$

Explanation:

Step1: Multiply the coefficients

$2 \times 3 = 6$

Step2: Combine like variable terms

$p^{-2} \times p^{-1} = p^{-2 + (-1)} = p^{-3}$

Step3: Rewrite negative exponent as positive

$p^{-3} = \frac{1}{p^3}$

Step4: Combine coefficient and fraction

$6 \times \frac{1}{p^3} = \frac{6}{p^3}$

Answer:

$\frac{6}{p^3}$