All ACT Math Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Exponents And Rational Numbers
Which real number satisfies ?
Simplying the equation, we get .
This further simplifies to .
satisfies this equation. You could also use to determine that .
Example Question #2 : Exponents And Rational Numbers
Find the value of if
When a fraction is raised to an exponent, both the numerator and denominator are raised to that exponent. Therefore, the equation can be rewritten as . From here we can proceed one of two ways. We can either solve x for or . Let's solve the first equation. We simply multiply 4 by itself until we reach a value of 64. , ,, and so on. Since , we know that x = 3.
We can repeat this process for the second equation to get , confirming our previous answer. However, since the ACT is a timed test, it is best to only solve one of the equations and move on. Then, if you have time left once all of the questions have been answered, you can come back and double check your answer by solving the other equation.
Example Question #1 : Exponents And Rational Numbers
If and , what is ?
Start from the inside. . Then, .
Example Question #1 : Exponents And Rational Numbers
Simplify by expressing each term in exponential form.
None of these are correct.
The rule for exponential ratios is .
Using this, we can convert the numerator and denominator quickly.
The middle step in the coversion is important, as there is a big difference between and , and likewise for the denominator.
Next, we can further simplify by remembering that
.
Find the least common denominator and simplify:
Thus,
Example Question #2 : How To Find An Exponent From A Rational Number
Often, solving a root equation is as simple as switching to exponential form.
Simplify into exponential form:
None of these are correct.
The rule for exponential ratios is .
Using this, we can convert the numerator and denominator quickly.
Next, we can further simplify by remembering that
.
Find the least common denominator and simplify:
Thus, our answer is . (Remember, the problem asked for exponential form!)