Discovering the Laws of Rational Exponents
Topic Index | Algebra2/Trig Index | Regents Exam Prep Center


With the help of a calculator, students attempt to discover the laws of rational exponents.
 (Download worksheet at bottom of page.)

Using your calculator, complete the following table.
Expression Numerical Value Expression Numerical Value
   
   
   
   
   
   

1.  What did you notice about your answers to the problems in the same rows?


2.  Is there some pattern that relates the two expressions in each row to one another?  Describe the pattern.


3.  Given the expression ,  what expression using a root symbol would yield the same numerical value?

 

4.  Given the expression , what expression utilizing a fractional exponent would yield the same numerical value?

 

 

Download Worksheet .pdf
(for use in your classroom)


 

Check out how to use your TI-83+/84+ graphing calculator with radicals.
Click here.

Check out how to use your TI-83+/84+ graphing calculator with exponents.
Click here.