Final answer:
To solve the expression X^(-3) * X^(-5), we apply the rule of adding exponents with the same base, resulting in X^(-8).
This correct answer is a)
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve the expression X^(-3) * X^(-5), we apply the rule for multiplying powers with the same base, which is to add the exponents. Therefore:
X^(-3) * X^(-5) = X^(-3 + -5) = X^(-8).
This rule is derived from the fundamental properties of exponents and illustrates that when you multiply powers with the same base, you simply add their exponents together.
The negative exponents indicate that these terms are reciprocals or divisions rather than multiplications.
This correct answer is a)