solve and leave in exponential form: 3^7 * 3^ -9 =
To solve the expression and leave it in exponential form, we can apply the exponent rule that states: "When you multiply two numbers with the same base, you add their exponents."
Using this rule, the given equation can be simplified as follows:
3^7 * 3^ -9 = 3^(7 + -9)
Notice that adding 7 and -9 gives us -2. Therefore, the simplified expression can be written as:
3^(7 + -9) = 3^(-2)
Hence, the solution in exponential form is 3^(-2).