SAT Math : SAT Mathematics

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : How To Subtract Exponents

Evaluate 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

When subtracting exponents, we don't multiply the exponents but we try to factor to see if we simplify the subtraction problem. In this case, we can simplify it by factoring . We get .

Example Question #2 : How To Subtract Exponents

Evaluate 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Although we have different bases, we know that . As long as exponents are the same, you are allowed to break the base to its prime numbers. Next, we can factor 

Example Question #517 : Algebra

Evaluate 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Although we have different bases, we know that . Therefore our expression is . Remember to apply the power rule of exponents. Next, we can factor out  We get .

Example Question #518 : Algebra

Simplify so that all exponents are positive:

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

When we divide two polynomials with exponents, we subtract their exponents. 

Remember that the question asks that all exponents be positive numbers. Therefore:

Example Question #2 : How To Subtract Exponents

Evaluate: 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

When subtracting with exponents, we try to factor out some terms.

We can factor out  to get 

.

Example Question #101 : Exponents

Evaluate: 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

When subtracting with exponents, we try to factor out some terms.

We can factor out  to get 

.

Example Question #111 : Exponents

Simplify: 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Although we have different bases, we know that .

Therefore, 

.

Finally, we factor out  to get 

.

Example Question #2 : How To Subtract Exponents

If , then what is ?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Follow the order of operations by solving the expression within the parentheses first.

Return to solve the original expression.

 

Example Question #1 : How To Divide Exponents

For all real numbers n, (2n * 2) / (2n * 2n) =

Possible Answers:

2

21 – n

2n/2n

2n

2n – 1

Correct answer:

21 – n

Explanation:

(2n * 2) / (2n * 2n) simplifies to 2/2n or 21/2n.

When dividing exponents with the same base, you subtract the divisor from the dividend, giving 21–n.

Example Question #113 : Exponents

 If x9/x3 = xn, solve for n.

Possible Answers:

12

6

7

9

3

Correct answer:

6

Explanation:

When dividing terms with the same base, we can subtract the exponents:

9 – 3 = 6

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