Positive Exponents and Zero Exponents


Related Topics:
More Lessons for Arithmetic
Math Worksheets




Share this page to Google Classroom

The following diagram shows how to calculate exponents or indices. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on exponents.
Exponents
 

Positive Exponents - Repeated Multiplication

The notation an for n > 0, means a multiplied by itself n times.

Text Box: a2 = a × a and a3 = a × a × a

For example,

For a quantity an, a is called the base and n is called the exponent or index.

Example:
Find the value of each of the following:

Text Box: a)	(– 2)5  b)	   c)	0.33

Solution:
Text Box: a) (– 2)5 = (–2) × (–2) × (–2) × (–2) × (–2)                 = –32    b)	         c)	0.33 = 0.3 × 0.3 × 0.3  	        = 0.027




Zero Exponents

Any number with an exponent of 0 is 1.

So, a0 = 1, for a ≠ 0

Example:
Simplify the following:
a) 30
b) (-1)0

Solution:
a) 30 = 1
b) (–1)0 = 1

Introduction To Exponents (Indices)

Examples of positive exponents and zero exponent



Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
Mathway Calculator Widget



We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.