Recognize that the expression \$27^{2/3}$ is an example of a rational exponent, where the numerator (2) is the power and the denominator (3) is the root.
Rewrite the expression using the property of exponents: \(a^{m/n} = \left( \sqrt[n]{a} \right)^m\). So, \$27^{2/3} = \left( \sqrt[3]{27} \right)^2$.
Identify the cube root of 27, which means finding a number that when cubed equals 27. Since \$3^3 = 27\(, we have \)\sqrt[3]{27} = 3$.
Substitute the cube root back into the expression: \(\left( \sqrt[3]{27} \right)^2 = 3^2\).
Evaluate the square of 3, which is \$3^2 = 9$.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
4m
Play a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Exponents
Rational exponents represent roots and powers combined. An expression like a^(m/n) means the nth root of a raised to the mth power, or equivalently, (a^(1/n))^m. Understanding this allows conversion between radical and exponential forms.
Radical form expresses exponents as roots, such as square roots or cube roots. For example, a^(2/3) can be written as the cube root of a squared. This form helps visualize and simplify expressions involving fractional exponents.
Evaluating radicals involves simplifying the root expression to a numerical value. This may require factoring the base to identify perfect powers or using a calculator. For instance, evaluating 27^(2/3) involves finding the cube root of 27 and then squaring the result.