When can I add exponents?

1 Answer
sente
Apr 7, 2016

x^a xx x^b=x^(a+b)

Explanation:

Exponents can be added when two of the same base are multiplied. That is, x^a xx x^b = x^(a+b). For example:

  • 2^3xx2^5 = 2^(3+5)=2^8

  • 5^(-1)xx5^1 = 5^(-1+1) = 5^0 = 1

  • 7^(1/4)xx7^(3/4) = 7^(1/4+3/4) = 7^(1)=7

Note that this does not apply when the bases are different.

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