Example

Simplifying x9x7\frac{x^9}{x^7} and 31032\frac{3^{10}}{3^2} Using the Quotient Property

Apply the Quotient Property for Exponents to simplify two quotients where the larger exponent is in the numerator — one with a variable base and one with a numerical base.

x9x7=x2\frac{x^9}{x^7} = x^2: Both the numerator and denominator share the base xx. Because the numerator exponent 99 is greater than the denominator exponent 77, there are more factors of xx on top than on the bottom. Apply the m>nm > n case of the Quotient Property: x9x7=x97=x2\frac{x^9}{x^7} = x^{9-7} = x^2.

31032=38\frac{3^{10}}{3^2} = 3^8: Both powers share the base 33. Because 10>210 > 2, the numerator has more factors of 33. Apply the Quotient Property: 31032=3102=38\frac{3^{10}}{3^2} = 3^{10-2} = 3^8.

In both parts, the larger exponent appears in the numerator, so the simplified result is a single power of the base — the remaining factors stay in the numerator after the common factors cancel.

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Updated 2026-04-29

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