text: how could i simpify the expression p^3 q ^ -1 / q ^2 r ^ -6 using positive exponents?   varibles with negative exponents are the same as the varible over one. for example, x^ -2 = 1/x^2     so the solution to your problem would be:  p^3 r^6/q^3  it is q^3 because you can combine like terms q^1 combines with q^2 to make q^3.  if you have any questions, contact me.  hope i was helpful.