Zero and negative exponents (8th grade/algebra)

We start out with some patterns to learn what would be the logical value for a number to the zeroth power, and also for negative exponents. The pattern confirms the common definition: any number to the zero exponent is one, and a negative exponent is handled as a reciprocal of the same power but with a positive exponent.

Then we also simplify some expressions involving negative exponents.

See also

Online practice for evaluating powers — including with negative and zero exponents

Laws of exponents, part 1 — video lesson

Math Mammoth Grade 8 curriculum

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