This chapter covers the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of numbers with exponents.

EO 1.12

APPLY one of the arithmetic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using exponential numbers.

Calculator Usage, Special Keys

Exponent key

Raising a number to an exponent requires the y^X key to be pressed twice. First, the base number is entered and the y^X key is pressed; this enters the base number (y). Next, the exponent number is pressed and the y^X key is pressed; this enters the exponent and tells the calculator to complete the calculation. The calculator will display the value.

x squared key

Pressing this key squares the displayed number. This key will save time over using the y^X key.

Exponents

The product a x a x a x a can be written as a⁴, where 4 is called the exponent of a or power to which a is raised. In this notation, a is often called the base.

Examples:

When an exponent is not written, it is assumed to be 1. For example, a^l = a. An exponent applies only to the quantity immediately to the left and below it. For example, in 3 + (-2)³ the base is -2, but in 3 - 2³ the base is 2.