Exponents

Definition

Exponents are a mathematical notation that indicate the number of times a base number is multiplied by itself. They represent repeated multiplication and are used to express very large or very small numbers concisely. Exponents are a fundamental concept in algebra and are crucial in understanding topics such as rational expressions, roots, and radical expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Exponents are used to represent repeated multiplication, where the exponent indicates the number of times the base is multiplied by itself.
2. When multiplying numbers with the same base, the exponents are added together, and when dividing numbers with the same base, the exponents are subtracted.
3. Exponents can be positive, negative, or zero, and each case has specific rules for simplification and evaluation.
4. Rational expressions, which involve fractions with variables, often use exponents to represent the degree of the numerator and denominator.
5. Simplifying expressions with roots, such as square roots or cube roots, can be done by rewriting them using exponents.

Review Questions

• Explain how exponents are used in the context of 'Use the Language of Algebra'.
  • In the context of 'Use the Language of Algebra', exponents are used to represent repeated multiplication of variables or numbers. This allows algebraic expressions to be written more concisely, as exponents can compactly represent operations like $x^2$ (x squared) or $y^3$ (y cubed). Exponents are a fundamental part of the language of algebra, as they enable the efficient representation of complex mathematical relationships and operations.
• Describe the role of exponents in 'Multiply and Divide Rational Expressions'.
  • When working with rational expressions, which involve fractions with variables, exponents play a crucial role. The degree of the numerator and denominator, as represented by exponents, determines the behavior of the rational expression during multiplication and division. Specifically, when multiplying rational expressions, the exponents in the numerator and denominator are added together, while when dividing rational expressions, the exponents in the numerator and denominator are subtracted. Understanding how to manipulate exponents is essential for simplifying and performing operations on rational expressions.
• Analyze how exponents are used to 'Simplify Expressions with Roots' and 'Simplify Radical Expressions'.
  • In the context of simplifying expressions with roots and radical expressions, exponents can be used to rewrite and simplify these expressions. For example, the square root of $x^2$ can be rewritten as $x^1$, and the cube root of $y^3$ can be rewritten as $y^1$. By understanding the relationship between roots and exponents, you can apply the rules of exponents to simplify and manipulate expressions involving radicals. This connection between exponents and roots is essential for effectively simplifying and working with a variety of algebraic expressions.

Related terms

Base: The number that is being multiplied by itself a certain number of times, as indicated by the exponent.

Power: The result of raising a base number to an exponent, representing the number of times the base is multiplied by itself.

Scientific Notation: A way of expressing very large or very small numbers using exponents to indicate the power of 10.