Question

simplify.
rewrite the expression in the form $5^n$.
$(5^{-8})(5^{-10}) = \square$

Explanation:

Step1: Apply exponent product rule

When multiplying like bases, add exponents: $a^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n}$
So, $(5^{-8})(5^{-10}) = 5^{-8 + (-10)}$

Step2: Calculate the sum of exponents

$5^{-8 - 10} = 5^{-18}$

Answer:

$5^{-18}$