Chapter 11.2, Problem 13PPE

To determine

Multiply: $\frac{5}{3a^2}·\frac{8}{a^3}$

Answer to Problem 13PPE

  $\frac{5}{3a^2}·\frac{8}{a^3}=\frac{40}{a^5}$

Explanation of Solution

Given:

Multiply: $\frac{5}{3a^2}·\frac{8}{a^3}$

Concept Used:

For multiplication of rational expression, we always cancel the common factor from numerator and denominator and if necessary multiply the numerators and denominators separately.

Calculation:

  $\text{Product}\text{rule}=a^m·a^n=a^{m+n}$

  $\frac{5}{3a^2}·\frac{8}{a^3}=\frac{5·8}{3·a^2·a^3}=\frac{40}{3a^{2+3}}=\frac{40}{a^5}$

Thus, $\frac{5}{3a^2}·\frac{8}{a^3}=\frac{40}{a^5}$