Question

How do you simplify sqrt (a^2/b^5) ?

Answer 1

This is an exercise in the conservation of powers. However, which expression constitutes the "simplest form" is a matter of local convention (i.e., up to your teacher).

Explanation:

The general formula of interest here is `(x^a)^b = x^(ab)`
So, `(a^2/b^5)^(1/2) =`
`a^(2/2) / b^(5/2) =`

`a / sqrt(b^5)` or `sqrt((a^2) / (b^5))` or `a/b^(2.5)`