Question #N220

What is the value of the expression $$\frac{3^{12} \cdot 9^4}{27^3}$$?
A. 3^9
B. 3^{12}
C. 3^{15}
D. 3^{18}

Correct Answer is: C

The expression can be rewritten as $\frac{3^{12} \cdot (3^2)^4}{(3^3)^3}$. Applying the rules of exponents, we have $\frac{3^{12} \cdot 3^8}{3^9}$, which simplifies to $3^{12+8-9} = 3^{11}$.