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What indices are telling you

What indices are telling you

One helpful way to calculate a−m/na^{-m/n}a−m/n is:

  • Negative sign: take the reciprocal.
  • Denominator nnn: take the nnnth root.
  • Numerator mmm: raise to the power mmm.

So

a−m/n=1(an)m=1amn a^{-m/n}=\frac{1}{(\sqrt[n]{a})^m}=\frac{1}{\sqrt[n]{a^m}} a−m/n=(na​)m1​=nam​1​

Example:

32−2/5=1(325)2=122=14 32^{-2/5}=\frac{1}{(\sqrt[5]{32})^2}=\frac{1}{2^2}=\frac{1}{4} 32−2/5=(532​)21​=221​=41​

Fractional and Negative Indices Lesson

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Maths
  3. /Fractional and Negative Indices

Step-by-step lessons covering Edexcel IGCSE Maths Fractional and Negative Indices for IGCSE Maths. Each lesson works through exam-style questions in Paper 1 and Paper 2 format. Build confidence with the shared Foundation-tier content first, since roughly 40% of Higher-tier marks are targeted at the grades 4–5 boundary that both tiers have in common.

Lessons

Recurring Decimals to FractionsFractional and Negative IndicesDirect and Inverse ProportionExpanding Triple BracketsSolving Simultaneous Equations GraphicallyGradient of a LineEquation of a LineSpheres and ConesSector Areas and Arc LengthsParallel and Perpendicular LinesSimilar Shapes (Area and Volume)Circle TheoremsCumulative FrequencyProbability Trees