12^-2 in the simplest form

Because there's a negative sign, it suggests that you should inverse the expression. After inverting it, the power will be positive, and you can square like normal.

use an equation of ratios to determine the amount of gas needed to fill the tank.

    0.2             0.8

  =    

288.75             x

                                                              231 gal

so, 0.2x = (0.8)(288.75 gal), and x = = 1155 gal.

                                                                0.2

it would take 1155 gal. to fill the tank.

the cost would be

1155 gal         $3

* = $3465   (answer)

      1           1 gal

hope this you