Many students make the error of multiplying the base by the exponent.For example, they will say 3 4 = 12 instead of the correct answer, Note that only the base is affected by the exponent. Unless parentheses are used, the exponent only affects the factor directly preceding it. From using parentheses as grouping symbols we see thatĢx 3 means 2(x)(x)(x), whereas (2x) 3 means (2x)(2x)(2x) or 8x 3. Note the difference between 2x 3 and (2x) 3. An exponent is usually written as a smaller (in size) numeral slightly above and to the right of the factor affected by the exponent.Īn exponent is sometimes referred to as a "power." For example, 5 3 could be referred to as "five to the third power." Make sure you understand the definitions.Īn exponent is a numeral used to indicate how many times a factor is to be used in a product. When naming terms or factors, it is necessary to regard the entire expression.įrom now on through all algebra you will be using the words term and factor. Rules that apply to terms will not, in general, apply to factors. It is very important to be able to distinguish between terms and factors. When an algebraic expression is composed of parts to be multiplied, these parts are called the factors of the expression. In 2x + 5y - 3 the terms are 2x, 5y, and -3. When an algebraic expression is composed of parts connected by + or - signs, these parts, along with their signs, are called the terms of the expression. Since these definitions take on new importance in this chapter, we will repeat them. In section 3 of chapter 1 there are several very important definitions, which we have used many times.
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