Simplify the Expression $$\left( \frac { a ^ { - 5 } } { b ^ { - 3 } } \right) ^ { - 4 }$$

question 21

Multiple Choice

Simplify the expression. $$\left( \frac { a ^ { - 5 } } { b ^ { - 3 } } \right) ^ { - 4 }$$
Write the answer without using negative exponents. Assume that all variables are restricted to those numbers for which the expression is defined.

• A) \(\quad \frac { a ^ { 12 } } { b ^ { 20 } }\)
• B) \(\quad \frac { a ^ { 20 } } { b ^ { 12 } }\)
• C) \(\quad \frac { b ^ { 12 } } { a ^ { 20 } }\)
• D) \(\quad \frac { b ^ { 20 } } { a ^ { 12 } }\)

---

Definitions:

Household Furnishings

Items and accessories used for decorating and living in a home, such as furniture, rugs, and appliances.

Business Inventory

Items that are held for sale in the ordinary course of business, representing a current asset on a company's balance sheet.

Section 1231 Property

Business property that combines features of capital assets and depreciable property, potentially offering favorable tax treatment on gains.

Trade or Business

An activity carried out for the purpose of earning income or profit, involving regular and continuous operations in a particular field.