Exponents

Definition: Exponent The exponent of a number says how many times to use that number in a multiplication. It is written as a small number to the right and above the base number.

The Zero Exponent Rule Any number (excluding zero) to the zero power is always equal to one. Examples:  =1  =1  55 0 =1

Negative Power Rule

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The One Exponent Rule Any number (excluding zero) to the first power is always equal to that number. Examples:  a 1 = a  7 1 = 7  53 1 = 53

Simplifying Exponential Expressions Step 1: Simplify (get rid of negatives and fractions, where possible). Step 2: Plug in.

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