Exponents

When multiplying numbers you add exponents.

When dividing exponents you subtract.

When any number is raised the zero power it equals one.

When (ab)^x and (a/b)^x distribute the exponent to each number.

When (b^x)^y multiply exponents.

When you have a cubed root etc. of a number it becomes a^1/n.

When a number is raised to a negative exponent bring it to the bottom.

Example 1.

Simplify.

1. (-4)^-2

Since the exponent is negative drop it down and you now have a fraction. Since the number is parentheses its going to be a positive number and 4 squared is 16. So the answer is 1/16.

2. ((x^-2)^-1)^0

Since the whole problem is raised to the zero exponent the answer is 0.
3. -4^-2

Since the exponent is negative drop it down and you now have a fraction. Since the number is not in parentheses its going to be a negative number and 4 squared is 16. So the answer is -1/16.