Use definition of zero and negative exponents

EXAMPLE 1

a. 3– 2 Definition of negative exponents

1 9

= Evaluate exponent.

b. (–7)0 Definition of zero exponent

132

=

= 1

Use definition of zero and negative exponents

EXAMPLE 1

= 25 Simplify by multiplying numerator and denominator by 25.

d. 0 – 5 a – n is defined only for a nonzero number a.

10 5 (Undefined)=

=15

1 25

–21c. Definition of negative exponents

125

1=

Evaluate exponent.

GUIDED PRACTICE for Example 1

Evaluate the expression.

023

1. = 1

1 64

=2. (–8) – 2

12

3.–3

= 8

4. (–1 )0 = 1