Overview
An exponent is a shorthand for repeated multiplication: 2^5 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 32. A root is the inverse operation: the square root of 9 is 3 because 3² = 9. This calculator supports powers and nth roots.
Formula
a^n = a × a × ... × a (n times). The nth root of x is y such that y^n = x.
How it works
Choose the mode
Power for exponents, or root for an nth root.
Enter the values
Enter the base and exponent, or the number and root degree.
Read the result
The power or root appears with the square, cube and common roots.
Worked examples
Example 1: 2^10
2 to the power of 10 equals 1024.
Example 2: cube root of 27
3, because 3³ = 27.
Frequently asked questions
What does a negative exponent mean?
a^−n = 1 ÷ a^n, provided a is not zero.
Can I calculate a negative root?
An odd root of a negative number is possible, but an even root of a negative number is not real.
How do I write a square root?
Use root mode with degree 2, or the sqrt function in the order of operations calculator.
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.