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, aman=amn\frac{a^m}{a^n} = a^{m-n}, to simplify quotients where the exponent in the numerator is greater than the exponent in the denominator.

  • For x9x7\frac{x^9}{x^7}, since 9>79 > 7, there are more factors of xx in the numerator. Subtract the denominator's exponent from the numerator's exponent: x97x^{9-7}. This simplifies to x2x^2.
  • For 31032\frac{3^{10}}{3^2}, the base is a number (33). Since 10>210 > 2, apply the property: 31023^{10-2}. This simplifies to 383^8.

When the larger exponent is in the numerator, the simplified result leaves factors in the numerator.

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Updated 2026-05-26

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