Okay, i must have forgot my friggin algebra, but the equation is:

[((1/2)^(2/3))(a^(1/3))(b^(2/3))(y)]+[(2^(1/3))(a^(1/3))(b^(2/3))(y)]

It might not be clear, so I'll say:
The first quantity consists of:
One-half raised to the 2/3, times a raised to the 1/3 times b raised to the 2/3 times y.
Add this to the second quantity:
2 raised to the 1/3 times a raised to the 1/3 times b raised to the 2/3 times y.


The answer says:
3[(ab^2)/4]^(1/3)(y)

3 times the quantity:
a times b squared all over 4
Quantity raised to the 1/3
All of this times "y".

Please write if you need any clarification.  If the above is the answer, what are the steps to get to it?  If not, what is the answer and the steps involved?
Thanks!

Sorry man, wish I could help.  College was way too many years ago.  I have dig out my old books to help my daughters with their homework these days.  

Good luck.  Somebody here [b]will[/b] be able to help you though.  Try instant messaging DPeacher.....

Your answer looks right to me.  Here's how I get it:

(1/2)^(2/3)a^(1/3)b^(2/3)y + 2^(1/3)a^(1/3)b^(2/3)y =

[(1/2)^(2/3) + 2^(1/3)] a^(1/3)b^(2/3)y =

[(1/2)^(2/3) + 2^(1/3)] (ab^2)^(1/3)y =

[(1/4)^(1/3) + 2^(1/3)] (ab^2)^(1/3)y =

[(1/4)^(1/3) + (8/4)^(1/3)] (ab^2)^(1/3)y =

[(1/4)^(1/3) + 2*(1/4)^(1/3)] (ab^2)^(1/3)y =

3*[(1/4)^(1/3)] (ab^2)^(1/3)y =

3*[(1/4)(ab^2)]^(1/3)y

Your equation would equal the following algebraic collection of terms
The orginal equation would go on to ...
=[(1/2)^(2/3)+(2^1/2)(a^1/3)(b^2/3)(y)
=(3/(2^2/3)(a^1/3)(b^2/3)(y)

Then the answer is....!!

=3[ab^2/4]^(1/3)(y)

I'm glad I don't use that in real life.

Home Depot scenario:

I'll take 1/2 over 2/3rds of those bolts, plus, 2 over 1/3'rd nuts, plus, yb over 2/3rd washers please.

You are not alone!

Fred