How do I calculate negative powers?

The power of a number indicates how many times that number must be multiplied by itself. If the power is a negative, this means that the number (or the base) is a fraction, with the base as a denominator. For example, 10-1 = 1/10. For more difficult numbers, e.g. 8-5, this is the same as saying 1/85, or 1/40.

MN
Answered by Molly N. Maths tutor

10604 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is 2 1/5 + 1 3/4


Solve 2x+y=6, 3x+2y=3 for x and y.


Starting with x^2+2x+1=0 use the method of factorising to solve for x.


How do I simplify a surd?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning