This deep dive covers Method: Using the Multiplication Law within Index Laws for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Index Laws in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 4 of 14 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Method: Using the Multiplication Law
1
Check bases are the same
2
Add the indices
3
Example: 3⁴ × 3⁵ = 3⁴⁺⁵ = 3⁹
4
Why it works: 3⁴ × 3⁵ = (3×3×3×3) × (3×3×3×3×3) = 3⁹
Practice questions for Index Laws
Which of these is equivalent to a³ × a⁵?
Simplify a⁵ × a³
Quick recall flashcards
Zero Power Law
a⁰ = 1
ANY number to power 0 equals 1
(except 0⁰ which is undefined)
Examples: 5⁰ = 1, 100⁰ = 1
Division Law
aᵐ ÷ aⁿ = aᵐ⁻ⁿ
SUBTRACT the powers
Example: 5⁶ ÷ 5² = 5⁴