Simplifying rational expressions with exponent properties

The  exercise appears under the Algebra I Math Mission. This exercise simplifies ratios of numbers and monomials with each other.

Types of Problems
There is one type of problem in this exercise:


 * 1) Type the simplified expression: This problem provides a rational expression of two monomials. The student is asked to simplify the expression and type the answer in the answer space to the right. Srewep1.png

Strategies
Knowledge of simplifying fractions by dividing by the greatest common factor, and the division rule for exponents are sufficient for being able to complete this exercise.
 * 1) The numerical parts of the fractions can be reduced by dividing out by the GCF.
 * 2) The variable parts of the expression can be simplified by taking the absolute value of the difference of the exponents, and placing that value in the numerator or denominator, whichever had the larger exponent.

Real-life Applications

 * 1) Simplification of algebraic expression increases algebraic proficiency which is vital in any mathematics courses from calculus and beyond, including any applied courses.