Dividing Powers in Algebra
(KS3, Year 7)
Powers can be divided. To divide powers, subtract the exponents from each other. a to the m divided by a to the n equals a to the m minus n This is a law of exponents.

How to Divide Powers in Algebra

Dividing powers in algebra is easy.

Question

Use the law of exponents to divide the powers below.
x to the 5 divided by x to the 3

Step-by-Step:

1

Check that the bases of the powers are the same. In our example, the bases are both x. x is the base of both powers

2

Find the exponents of the powers
  • Find the exponent of the first power. In our example, the first power has an exponent of 5. 5
  • Find the exponent of the second power. In our example, the second power has an exponent of 3. 3

3

Subtract the exponents from Step 2 (5 and 3) from each other.
5 − 3 = 2

4

Make the answer from Step 3 (2) the exponent of the base of the powers that have been divided. x to the 2

Answer:

We have divided the powers from each other. x to the 5 divided by x cubed equals x squared

Understanding Dividing Powers in Algebra

Let us look at the rule for dividing powers in algebra: bases and exponents
  • We are dividing powers. am, an and am - n are powers.
  • The base in each power is a. This law of exponents only applies when the bases are the same.
  • The exponents in each power are m, n and m - n. This law of exponents applies even when the exponents are different.

Dividing Powers in Algebra As an Algebraic Fraction

A division in algebra can be written as an algebraic fraction. a to the m divided by a to the n equals a to the m over a to the n

Lesson Slides

The slider below shows another real example of how to divide powers in algebra.

Beware

The Bases Must Be The Same

The law of exponents discussed here only works when the bases are the same. The division below cannot be simplified, and must be left as it is: same_base_division_in_algebra

Top Tip

0, 1 and Negative Exponents

When subtracting exponents, don't worry if the resulting exponent is 0, 1 or negative. The relevant laws of exponents are:
  • a0 = 1
  • a1 = a
  • a - n = 1 / an
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This page was written by Stephen Clarke.