Exponents
1. When multiplying like bases, add the exponents: am x an = am+n.Example: a2 • a4 = a2+4 = a6
2. When dividing like bases, subtract the exponents and determine if your base is in the numerator or in the denominator: am/an = am-n.
Example: a6/a4 = a6-4 = a2 Also, a4/a6 = a4-6 = a-2 = 1/a2 (Since 6 is bigger than 4 and is in the denominator, then the base and its exponent will be in the denominator.)
3. When bringing a power to a power, multiply the exponents: (am) n = amn.
Example: (a2) 4 = a2x4 = a8 Also, (a2) -4 = a2x(-4) = a-8 = 1/a8
