Simplify the expression in Step 3 by applying the exponent to the numerator and denominator separately. Remove the common factor, 3, from the constants in the numerator and denominator. 12 15a5b2 4 = 3(4) 3(5a5b2) 4 = 4 5a5b2 4 Recall that the power of a quotient rule states that if x and y are real numbers and n is an integer, then we have the following. x y n = xn yn Use the power of a quotient rule of exponents to simplify the expression. 4 5a5b2 4 = 44 (5a5b2)4 Use the power of product rule of exponents in the denominator. That is, if x and y are real numbers and n is an integer, then (xy)n = xnyn. Then, evaluate the numerical expressions 5 4 and 2 4. 4 5a5b2 4 = 44 54(a5)4(b2)4 = 44 54(a5 4)(b2 4) = 44 54a20 b8 = 625a20b8