Dividing Powers

Dividing Powers

Rule: For all numbers x (not zero) and all integers m and n,
“This simply means when you are dividing,  and the bases are the same, you SUBTRACT the exponents.” (top exponent subtract bottom exponent)

Consider:

Observe this rule at work in the following examples:

1. The bases are the same (both 2’s), so the exponents are subtracted.
   
2. The bases are the same (all a ‘s), so the exponents are subtracted. Notice how the numbers in front of the bases (6 and 1) are being divided.
   
3. The bases are the same (all x’s), so the exponents are subtracted. The numbers in front of the bases are divided.
   
4. Remember: top exponent minus bottom exponent.
   Remember: raising to a 0 power creates a 1.