Understanding ExponentsAs we begin our study of monomials, you will need to learn and understand the use of exponents. So, let's begin by defining the term exponent. An exponent is a number (small and raised) that represents the "shortcut method" to showing how many times a number is multiplied by itself. That sounds complicated, so let's look at a few examples: Example 1 Example 2
Your base can even be a negative number! Take a look! Example 3
Example 4
Tip!Whenever you have a negative base and the exponent is even, your answer will always be positive! Whenever you have a negative base and the exponent is odd, your answer will always be negative! Now is the tricky problem! What happens when you have a negative base, but it's not in parenthesis? Example 5
Now, I have just one more tip for you when working with exponents! Tip!When you have a 0 as an exponent, your answer will always be 1. The only exception is 00 = 0. Examples40 = 1 or 80 = 1
Practice Problems1. 72 = 2. (-8)2 = 3. (-9)3 = 4. (-3)4 = 5. -24 = 6. -43 =
Answer Key
This was just a quick review of the meaning of exponents before we get into the laws of exponents and monomials! I hope this gives you better foundation for beginning this unit! Good luck! Coming up next, the laws of exponents! Exponents & Monomials Unit |
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