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
