Exponent
Definition of Exponent

• An Exponent is a mathematical notation that implies the number of times a number is to be multiplied by itself.

Examples of Exponent

• In the expression a⁷, the exponent is 7. 'a' is the base.
  In 2⁴, 4 is the exponent. It indicates that 2 is to be multiplied by itself 4 times.
  2⁴ = 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 16

More about Exponent

• There are some algebra rules and formulas for exponents and they are useful in evaluating certain expressions.
• The exponents can be positive, negative, or zero.

Solved Example on Exponent

A piece of cloth is in the shape of a square with a length of 8 yd. Find the area of the cloth in exponential form.
Choices:
A. 8³ Square yards
B. 8² Square yards
C. 8¹ Square yards
D. 2⁸ Square yards
Correct Answer: B
Solution:
Step 1: Area of a square = s x s, where s is the side length.
Step 2: = 8 × 8         [Substitute s = 8.]                       
Step 3: = 8² Square yards                                            
Step 4: So, the area of the piece of cloth in exponential form is 8² Square yards.

Related Terms for Exponent

• Base
• Power
• Laws of Exponent
• Positive Exponent
• Negative Exponent
• Zero Exponent