Multiplying Exponential Expression

A. Multiplying Monomials

Remark: To multiply monomials we use the first law of exponents given below.

Law I:

Note, to multiply exponential expressions with the same base you add the exponents on the factors to obtain the exponent on the answer.

Examples:

Since multiplication is commutative, the order we list the factors is immaterial. Remember y is the same as y to the first power. We normally go directly to the answer.

B. Raising a Monomial to a Power

To raise a monomial to a power we generally need the following two laws of exponents.

Law II:

Law III:

Example:

Law III states to raise a product to a power we raise each factor to the power. Law II states when we raise an exponential to a power we multiply the exponents together.

C. Other Multiplication Problems

Remark: In performing any set of operations it is advisable to follow the order of operations.

Do the exponentiation before you multiply.