MPM1D0 Unit 1: Polynomials Mr.

Rea
Mayfield Secondary School Page 1(2)
Lesson #1: Work With Exponents

Definitions


Constant A quantity whose value does not change. These numbers can be integers,
decimals or fractions.

Variable A quantity whose value can change (or vary). Usually represented by a letter.

Terms A mathematical word created by the multiplication or division of numbers
(constants) and letters (variables).

Expressions A mathematical phrase created by combining terms, connected by addition
and subtraction operators.

Polynomial A mathematical expression with more than one term.

Power The product of identical factors, consisting of a base and an exponent.

Base The identical factor (constant or variable being multiplied) in a power.

Exponent The superscript (raised) part of a power that indicates how many times the
base is multiplied.


Key Concepts


Powers are a useful shortcut to express repeated multiplication. For example:
6
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 =

Powers sometimes appear in formulas. When evaluating expressions involving powers,
follow the correct order of operations (BEDMAS).



Example 1: Evaluate Powers

a)
3
2

b) ( )
3
3

c) ( )
4
3

d)
4
3

e)
3
3.5

f)
3
2
3
| |
|
\ .

MPM1D0 Unit 1: Polynomials Mr. Rea
Mayfield Secondary School Page 2(2)
Example 2: Apply Exponents to Solve Problems

Popcorn is for sale in 2 different containers. The mega-box is box-shaped with the boxs
length, width and height all 9.2 cm. The jumbo-drum is cylinder-shaped with a height of
9.0 cm and a diameter of 10.4 cm. Assuming each container is filled to the top, which
container holds more? How much more? Round your answer to the nearest cubic
centimeter.










































Homework

Workbook: Page 53 #1-4, 5ac, 6bdf, 7acf, 8, 11, 13