Lesson 1 – Exponent Laws 30 Learning Goal I can use the exponent laws to simplify exponential expressions Unit 6: Exponential Functions

Lesson 1 – Exponent Laws

30

Learning Goal

I can use the exponent laws to simplify exponential expressions

Unit 6: Exponential Functions

Lesson 1 – Exponent Laws

Unit 6: Exponential Functions

xy

“x” is the base and “y” is the exponent

Lesson 1 – Exponent LawsUnit 6: Exponential Functions

To multiply powers with the same base, add the exponents.

(xy)(xz) = xy+z


To divide powers with the same base, subtract the exponents.

(xy)(xz) = xy-z


Any base to the exponent zero is equal to 1. (With the exception of zero as a base)

x0 = 1

Examples:

a) y0 b) 60 c) (7a3b-1)0


To evaluate a power of a power, multiply the exponents

(xm)n = xmn

Examples:

a) (x3)2 b) (32)4 c) (z5)2


To simplify the power of a product, apply the exponent to both numbers in the product.

(xy)m = xmym



When simplifying a negative exponent, convert the base into a fraction (if it is not already), flip it, and make the exponent positive.

x-m = = xm =


Remember, the exponent applies only to the factor it is directly attached to unless there are parentheses.

Examples:

a) -32 b) (-3)2


4

43

225

3015

bacbaSimplify:


Practice

Pg. 166 #1-7 Handout

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Lesson 1 – Exponent Laws 30 Learning Goal I can use the exponent laws to simplify exponential expressions Unit 6: Exponential Functions