How this calculator works
A quotient of powers with the same non-zero base keeps the base and subtracts the denominator exponent. Both original powers must be defined. A negative combined exponent means the reciprocal of a positive power. This calculator checks intermediate powers as well as the result for numeric overflow.
Formula
b^m / b^n = b^(m - n).
Worked example
2^5 / 2^3 = 2^2 = 4. Also, 3^1 / 3^3 = 3^(-2) = 1/9.
Advertisement
Frequently asked questions
Must the bases match?
Yes. Enter the common base. Different bases generally cannot be combined by this rule.
Can exponents be negative?
Yes, as long as the base is non-zero and each original power has a finite real value.
Can the base be zero?
No. A denominator with zero base is either zero or undefined.