Calculate Powers & Exponents
Calculate any base raised to any power. Supports negative exponents, fractional exponents, and large numbers.
How Exponents Work
b^n means multiply b by itself n times. 2^10 = 2×2×2×2×2×2×2×2×2×2 = 1,024. Special cases: any number to the 0 power = 1. Negative exponents = reciprocal: 2^(-3) = 1/2^3 = 1/8. Fractional exponents = roots: 8^(1/3) = ∛8 = 2. Understanding these rules unlocks algebra, compound interest, and exponential growth.
Exponent Rules
Product rule: b^m × b^n = b^(m+n). Quotient rule: b^m ÷ b^n = b^(m-n). Power rule: (b^m)^n = b^(m×n). Zero rule: b^0 = 1 (for b ≠ 0). These rules make complex calculations simple — 2^5 × 2^3 = 2^8 = 256 without multiplying everything out.
The most practical exponent in everyday life: the Rule of 72. Divide 72 by the interest rate to estimate how many years it takes to double your money. At 8% return: 72÷8 = 9 years to double. This is compound interest (exponents) made simple enough for mental math.
