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Laws of indices - EdexcelLetters or numbers to the power of zero

Indices are used to show numbers that have been multiplied by themselves. They can be used instead of the roots such as the square root. The rules make complex calculations that involve powers easier.

Part of MathsNumber

Letters or numbers to the power of zero

Discover our updated revision resources for GCSE Maths: The power of zero, with step-by-step slideshows, quizzes, practice exam questions, and more!

This can be seen in the example of \(j^2 \div j^2\).

Subtract the powers, so \(j^2 \div j^2 = j^{2 - 2} = j^0\).

Any number or letter divided by itself is 1.

This gives \(j^2 \div j^2 = j^0\) (dividing rule) and \(j^2 \div j^2 = 1\), which means \(j^0 = 1\).

Laws of indices - summary

  • \(a^m \times a^n = a^{m + n}\)
  • \(a^m \div a^n = a^{m - n}\)
  • \((a^m)^n = a^{mn}\)
  • \(a^0 = 1\)
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