Explore
Negative Indices Flashcards
GCSE Mathematics (Edexcel) 1MA1
1 / 10
10 Cards
Ready to master these flashcards?
Sign in to study with spaced repetition and track your progress.
Sign In to Track ProgressTerms in this set (10)
1
Negative index rule
A negative index means taking the reciprocal of the base. For example, a^(-n) = 1/(a^n).
2
Simplify 2^(-3)
2^(-3) = 1/(2^3) = 1/8.
3
Simplify 5^(-2)
5^(-2) = 1/(5^2) = 1/25.
4
Simplify x^(-1)
x^(-1) = 1/x.
5
Simplify (1/3)^(-2)
(1/3)^(-2) = (3/1)^2 = 3^2 = 9.
6
Simplify 10^(-1)
10^(-1) = 1/10.
7
Simplify (2/5)^(-1)
(2/5)^(-1) = (5/2).
8
Simplify 4^(-3)
4^(-3) = 1/(4^3) = 1/64.
9
Simplify (x/y)^(-2)
(x/y)^(-2) = (y/x)^2 = y^2/x^2.
10
Key property of negative indices
Negative indices do not make the base negative; they indicate the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive power.
Want to Learn More?
Get personalised lessons, quizzes, and instant feedback from your AI tutor.
Start Learning