Chapter 1: Problem 59
Perform the indicated operations. If \(a^{3}=5,\) then what does \(a^{12}\) equal?
Short Answer
Expert verified
The value of \(a^{12}\) is 625.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Problem
We need to find the value of \(a^{12}\) given that \(a^3 = 5\). This requires us to find a connection between \(a^3\) and \(a^{12}\).
02
Expressing Powers
We know that \(a^{12}\) can be expressed as a power of \(a^3\). Specifically, \(a^{12} = (a^3)^4\) because when you multiply the exponent 3 by 4, you get 12.
03
Substitution and Simplification
Since \(a^3 = 5\), substitute 5 into the expression for \(a^{12}\). Thus, \(a^{12} = (a^3)^4 = 5^4\).
04
Calculating the Power of 5
To find \(5^4\), compute it step-by-step: - Start with 5 multiplied by itself: - \(5 \times 5 = 25\) - \(25 \times 5 = 125\) - \(125 \times 5 = 625\)Thus, \(5^4 = 625\).
05
Concluding the Solution
We have computed that \(a^{12} = 625\), which gives us the solution based on the initial condition \(a^3 = 5\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Exponentiation Techniques
Understanding exponentiation is crucial because it simplifies complex calculations. **Exponentiation** involves raising a base number to a power or exponent, which tells us how many times to multiply the base by itself. When working with exponents, there are several techniques to consider:
- **Multiplying Powers:** When you multiply powers with the same base, you add the exponents. For example, \(a^m \times a^n = a^{m+n}\).
- **Raising a Power to Another Power:** When raising an exponent to another exponent, multiply the exponents together. In our problem, \(a^{12} = (a^3)^4\), this means multiply 3 by 4 to get 12.
- **Power of a Product:** To raise a product to a power, apply the exponent to each factor. That is \((ab)^n = a^n \times b^n\).
Mathematical Operations
Mathematical operations play a significant role in solving exponentiation problems. Operations such as multiplication and power calculation can greatly affect the outcome. Here's a closer look at their application in our problem:
- **Multiplication:** This straightforward operation is used repeatedly in calculating powers. For example, to compute \(5^4\), repeatedly multiply 5 by itself.
- **Exponentiation Calculation:** Directly involves multiplying a number by itself multiple times as in \(5^4 = 5 \times 5 \times 5 \times 5\).
Algebraic Manipulations
Algebraic manipulation skills are essential for restructuring and simplifying expressions. They are particularly useful in problems involving exponents, like converting \(a^{12}\) in terms of \(a^3\). Here’s how algebraic manipulations help:
- **Rewriting Expressions:** Transform expressions to make calculations easier. Knowing that \(a^{12}=(a^3)^4\) helps transition to a simpler form.
- **Substitution:** Replacing expressions with known values simplifies solving. Substituting \(a^3 = 5\) provides a clear path to finding \(a^{12}\).
- **Simplification:** Break down expressions into manageable calculations. Compute \(5^4\) step-by-step for accuracy.