This document defines key terms used in algebraic expressions including variables, factors, products, bases, and exponents. It provides examples of algebraic expressions such as 5x, 3x-7, and m x 5n. Expressions involving powers indicate the number of times the base is multiplied as a factor, such as x^n being read as "x to the nth power". The document explains how to write expressions algebraically and evaluate powers.

1. Variables & Expressions 1-1

5. An expression like x^n is called a power and is read "x to the nth power." The variable x is called the base, and n is called the exponent. The exponent indicates the number of times the base is used as a factor. Symbols Words Meaning 3^1 3 to the first power 3 3^2 3 squared 3*3 3^3 3 cubed 3*3*3 3^4 3 to the fourth power 3*3*3*3 3^5 3 to the fifth power 3*3*3*3*3 3^6 3 to the sixth power 3*3*3*3*3*3

9. Glencoe/McGraw-Hill 2003