Divide Monomials: example 6.60

To simplify an expression with a quotient, we need to first compare the exponents in the numerator and denominator.

1. ⓐ
   

   Since 12 > 8, there are more factors of b in the denominator.
   Use the Quotient Property, $\frac{a^m}{a^n}=\frac{1}{a^{n-m}}$.
   Simplify.

2. ⓑ
   

   Since 5 > 3, there are more factors of 3 in the denominator.
   Use the Quotient Property, $\frac{a^m}{a^n}=\frac{1}{a^{n-m}}$.
   Simplify.
   Simplify.

   
   Notice that when the larger exponent is in the denominator, we are left with factors in the denominator.