Algebra
Basic

Quotient of Powers

Dividing powers with the same base subtracts exponents.

Formula

aman=am−n\frac{a^m}{a^n} = a^{m-n}

Variables

aBase
m, nExponents

Example

2⁷ / 2³ = 2⁴ = 16.

Did You Know?

Subtracting exponents when dividing powers naturally leads to the definition of negative and zero exponents.

exponentslawsbasics