Powers and Efficient Numbers

Exponents are a way to show repeated multiplication. For instance, \(2^4 = 2 \times 2 \times 2 \times 2 = 16\).

Scientific notation is a way to write very large or very small numbers using powers of ten, like \(3.5 \times 10^6\).

Why Use These?

They make it easier to work with big or tiny numbers, like populations or atoms.

Rules to Remember

• Multiplying: Add exponents when bases are the same.
• Dividing: Subtract exponents.
• Power of a power: Multiply exponents.