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Finding an Exponent of −1

(KS3, Year 8)

A number with an exponent of -1 is equal to the reciprocal of the number (1 divided by the number). Imagine we have the number 2 with an exponent of -1. This is equal to ¹⁄₂.

2 to the minus 1 is equal to 1 over 2

This is a law of exponents.

How to Find an Exponent of −1

Finding an exponent of −1 is easy.

Question

Use the law of exponents to find the power with an exponent of −1 below.

Step-by-Step:

1

Find the number that has an exponent of −1. In our example, the number is 3.

2

Write 1 on the top of a fraction (called the numerator).

1 over the line

3

Write the letter from Step 1 (3) on the bottom of the fraction (called the denominator).

1 over 3

Answer:

We have found an exponent of −1.

3 to the minus 1 equals 1 over 3

Understanding Finding an Exponent of −1

Let us look at the rule for an exponent of −1:

bases and exponents

2⁻¹ is a power.
The base of the power is 2.
The exponent is −1.
The fraction ¹⁄₂ is the reciprocal of 2.

Lesson Slides

The slider below shows another real example of how to find an exponent of −1. Open the slider in a new tab

What Is a Reciprocal?

A reciprocal of a number is 1 divided by the number. reciprocals of numbers

Reciprocal of a Fraction

The reciprocal of a fraction just flips the fraction upside down. $reciprocals of fractions$

This page was written by Stephen Clarke.

Worksheet

This test is printable and sendable

Finding an Exponent of −1

How to Find an Exponent of −1

Question

Step-by-Step:

1

2

3

Answer:

Understanding Finding an Exponent of −1

Lesson Slides

What Is a Reciprocal?

Reciprocal of a Fraction

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