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Source: — Problem Solving |

by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Mon Nov 23, 2015 1:41 pm
Given the equation [(p^-5)/(p^4)]^(-2) = p^q, what is the value of q?

A) -8
B) 2
C) 18
D) 20
E) 28

[(p^-5)/(p^4)]^(-2) = p^q
First, (p^-5)/(p^4) = p^(-9) [applied the quotient law]
So, [(p^-5)/(p^4)]^(-2) = [p^(-9)]^(-2)
= p^18 [applied the power of a power law]
= p^q

So, q must equal 18
Answer: C

For more on these exponent laws, watch our free video - https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gmat- ... video/1025

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
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by Matt@VeritasPrep » Fri Nov 27, 2015 2:28 am
This is definitely a vital topic on the GMAT: basic exponent properties WILL be tested, so I'd try a few more if you can.
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