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

11316 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If m=a^x, n=a^y, and a^2 =(m^y n^x)^z Show xyz=1.


Expand (x-5)(2x-3)


How do I find the equation of a line that is perpendicular to another line?


Probabilities: "A bag contains counters that are red, blue, green and yellow. There are 9 red, (3x) blue, (x-5) green and (2x) yellow. If the probability of picking a red at random is 9/100, work out the probability of picking a green."


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