Mastering the Art of Multiplying Variables with Exponents

Exponents are small helpers in math that show how many times a number or letter (variable) should be multiplied by itself. For example, in 2², the exponent 2 means we multiply 2 by itself twice. When dealing with variables, like x³, the exponent tells us to multiply 'x' by itself three times. When multiplying variables with the same base, we can add their exponents together. This rule simplifies calculations, making expressions like x² × x³ become x⁵, by adding the exponents (2 + 3 = 5).

Practice makes perfect! Try out different examples, like a³ × a² (which becomes a⁵) and b⁴ × b⁴ × b⁴ (which simplifies to b¹²). Remember, math is like a fun adventure where exponents make calculations exciting and easier. You're on your way to becoming an expert exponent explorer!

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[llIV]

I learned a different way, by multiplying what ever is in the parentheses to the first number outside e.g. 5y•2 (-3y 4y )

15y - 20y + 6y+ 8
15y + 20y = 14y