Explain x^(1)

[nycmathguy]

Let x = any number.

Why does x^(1) = x?

 

[MathLover1]

Why does x^(1) = x?

do you know definition: If x is a positive number and n is its exponent (where x is the base and n is the exponent or power), then x^n means x is multiplied by itself n times.

 

[nycmathguy]

Why does x^(1) = x?

do you know definition: If x is a positive number and n is its exponent (where x is the base and n is the exponent or power), then x^n means x is multiplied by itself n times.

By this definition, is the following also true?
Does this definition apply to terms as well?

Samples:

(x - 1)^1 = (x - 1)

(6x^2)^(1) = (6x^2)

[f(x)]^(1) = f(x)

 

[HallsofIvy]

Yes, of course. x^1= x means anything, no matter how complicated, to the power 1 is itself.

 

[nycmathguy]

Yes, of course. x^1= x means anything, no matter how complicated, to the power 1 is itself.

No need to say "of course" in your reply. Of course, do you get how cocky it reads?

 

[Country Boy]

Do you not realize how elementary things like this are? This is basically grade school arithmetic.

 

[nycmathguy]

Do you not realize how elementary things like this are? This is basically grade school arithmetic.

No need to be cocky. It doesn't hurt to review the basics.