Simplifying Division of Monomials
When dividing monomials, it’s essential to understand the rules and apply them correctly. This worksheet will guide you through the process of dividing monomials with ease.
Understanding the Rules
To divide monomials, follow these steps:
- Divide the coefficients: Divide the numerical coefficients of the monomials.
- Divide the variables: Divide the variables by subtracting the exponents.
Example 1
Divide: 12x^2 ÷ 4x
Solution
- Divide the coefficients: 12 ÷ 4 = 3
- Divide the variables: x^2 ÷ x = x^(2-1) = x
Answer: 3x
Example 2
Divide: 16x^3y ÷ 8xy
Solution
- Divide the coefficients: 16 ÷ 8 = 2
- Divide the variables: x^3 ÷ x = x^(3-1) = x^2
- Divide the variables: y ÷ y = 1 (since any number divided by itself is 1)
Answer: 2x^2
Example 3
Divide: 24x^4 ÷ 6x^2
Solution
- Divide the coefficients: 24 ÷ 6 = 4
- Divide the variables: x^4 ÷ x^2 = x^(4-2) = x^2
Answer: 4x^2
Practice Time!
Divide the following monomials:
- 18x^2 ÷ 6x
- 20x^3y ÷ 10xy
- 36x^5 ÷ 9x^3
- 48x^2y ÷ 16x^2
- 64x^4 ÷ 8x
Answers
- 3x
- 2x^2y
- 4x^2
- 3y
- 8x^3
Notes
- When dividing monomials, make sure to divide the coefficients and variables separately.
- When dividing variables with exponents, subtract the exponents.
- If a variable has no exponent, it is assumed to have an exponent of 1.
FAQs
What are the steps to divide monomials?
+To divide monomials, divide the coefficients and variables separately. Divide the coefficients by dividing the numerical values, and divide the variables by subtracting the exponents.
How do I divide variables with exponents?
+When dividing variables with exponents, subtract the exponents. For example, x^4 ÷ x^2 = x^(4-2) = x^2.
What if a variable has no exponent?
+If a variable has no exponent, it is assumed to have an exponent of 1.
By following these simple steps and practicing with the examples provided, you’ll become a pro at dividing monomials in no time!
Related Terms:
- Dividing Monomials worksheet Kuta Answers
