Chapter 1
Linear Equations and Graphing
Course: Gre
Subject: Gre Quantitative Reasoning
Chapter: Foundations Of Functions And Composition
Introduction: Working with Powers
Exponents provide a shorthand for repeated multiplication, but working with them requires understanding several key properties. This lesson focuses on simplifying expressions that involve exponents—combining terms, applying the rules correctly, and presenting answers in simplest form.
Key Vocabulary
Before exploring the rules, it is important to understand the terminology used when working with exponents.
| Term | Definition | Example | | Base | The number being multiplied | In 5³, the base is 5 | | Exponent | The number indicating how many times to multiply the base | In 5³, the exponent is 3 | | Coefficient | The number multiplying a variable expression | In 3x², the coefficient is 3 | | Degree | The value of the exponent | x⁵ has degree 5 |