Dictionary Definition
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a base as "a number (such as 5 in 56.44 or 57) that is raised to a power."Understanding Bases in Powers
A power is the product of multiplying a number by itself. A power consists of a base and an exponent. For example, 32 is a power. 3 is the base and 2 is the exponent.
This means that 3 (the base) is multiplied by itself 2 (the exponent) times.
Real Examples of Bases in Powers
Some real examples of bases in powers are given below.- The power below has a base of 4:
- The power below has a base of 2:
- The base can also be a letter. The power below has a base of a:
Powers of 10
A power of 10 has a base of 10 and an exponent:101 = 10
102 = 10 × 10 = 100
103 = 10 × 10 × 10 = 1,000
103 = 10 × 10 × 10 × 10 = 10,000
This page was written by Stephen Clarke.
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