Negative Exponents

Front

What is a negative exponent?

Back

A negative exponent indicates that the base should be taken as the reciprocal raised to the opposite positive exponent. For example, a^-n = 1/a^n.

Front

Convert 9^-3 to a positive exponent.

Back

1/9^3

Front

Evaluate 7^-2.

Back

1/49

Front

Convert x^-7 to a positive exponent.

Back

1/x^7

Front

Evaluate 2^-1.

Back

1/2

Front

Evaluate 5^-2.

Back

1/25

Front

What is the rule for negative exponents?

Back

The rule states that a^-n = 1/a^n for any non-zero number a.

Front

If a = 3, what is 3^-2?

Back

1/3^2 = 1/9.

Front

What does 10^-1 equal?

Back

1/10.

Front

How do you simplify (x^2)^-3?

Back

1/x^6.