Exploring Zero and Negative Exponents

Algebraic expressions

Zero and negative exponents

Fractional exponents

Positive integer exponents

One

Undefined

Zero

The number itself

Because it equals infinity

Because it equals zero

Because it equals one

Because it has no consistent value

Multiplication

Addition

Subtraction

Division

8

2

1/8

1/2

1/25

5^-2

1/10

1/5^2

2.75

2.5

3.25

4

Divide the exponents

Add the exponents

Multiply the exponents

Subtract the exponents

3^2

3^5

3^15

3^3

You divide their exponents

You subtract the exponent of the denominator from the exponent of the numerator

You multiply their exponents

You add their exponents