How to Use Rational Exponents
Rational exponents (also called "fractional exponents") are exponents that are fractions. Exponents describe how many times a given number is to be multiplied by itself. They are written as superscripts to the immediate right of the number to which they apply. They can also be represented by typing the circumflex accent (^) and then the value of the exponent to the immediate right of the number (e.g. 2^4). To use a rational exponent, it must be rewritten as an exponent and a root. The root refers to the number that when multiplied by itself a specified number of times will equal a certain number. The symbol for the root of a given number (x) is x√y.
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Instructions
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Write down the number in front of the rational exponent. This will be considered the main number. [For example: If you have 2^(2/3), write "2".]
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Write the number in the numerator (top portion) of the rational exponent as the exponent of the main number. [For example: 2^(2/3) becomes 2^2.]
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Write the number in the denominator (bottom portion) of the rational exponent as the root of the main number. [For example: 2^(2/3) becomes 3√(2^2).]
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Enter the main number into your calculator.
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Press the exponent (x^y) button.
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Enter the number of the exponent.
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Press the equal sign button.
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Press the root (x√y) button.
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Enter the number of the root.
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Press the equal sign button. The number displayed is the result of applying the rational exponent to your main number.
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Tips & Warnings
The exponent must always be calculated before the root.
