Rational Exponents

1
Objectives:
Know how to convert between rational exponents and radical notation
Video Tutorial for This Entire Lesson
A. Definition of a Rational Exponent










Convert each expression to radical notation. Assume all variables
represent positive real numbers.

1.
3
5
a 2.

1
2 3
5x 3.
1
4
3y






4.
3
4
z

Rational Exponents are fractional powers

Definitions:

1
n
n
a a


m
n m
n
a a



Rational Exponents

2
Convert each expression to an equivalent expression by using rational
exponents. Assume that all variables represent positive real powers.


1.
3 4
b 2. 7a 3. 7 a