Adding the exponents together is just a shortcut to the answer. When we add the exponents, we're increasing the number of times the base is multiplied by itself. This rule stays the same, no matter how complicated the question gets.
How do you know when to add or multiply exponents?
Rules for Multiplying Exponents with Variables
- When the variable bases are the same, the powers are added.
- When the variable bases are different and the powers are the same, the bases are multiplied first.
- When the variable bases and the powers are different, the exponents are evaluated separately and then multiplied.
Why do we add exponents when multiplying and subtracting exponents?
How to divide exponents. ... To divide exponents (or powers) with the same base, subtract the exponents. Division is the opposite of multiplication, so it makes sense that because you add exponents when multiplying numbers with the same base, you subtract the exponents when dividing numbers with the same base.
