Have you encountered order of operations problems with exponents and roots and wondered where to begin? Keep reading to discover solutions to these problems.

#1 Learn About Exponents and Roots

First, why is it important?. Squared numbers (exponents) and square roots introduce students to skills used in Pre-Algebra. These skills enable students to complete the order of operations. In addition, high school math courses, such as Algebra and Geometry, use exponents and roots in formulas. The Pythagorean formula is an example. See below.

Pythagorean Theorem example

Second, various careers involve solving problems with exponents and roots. Examples include: construction, engineering, science, architecture, finance, and forensics.

#2 – What is an Exponent and a Root?

First, in simple terms, an exponent tells a number how many times to multiply itself.

Exponent example, base of 8, exponent of 3

Furthermore, the opposite of an exponent is a root.

2 examples of simplifying roots: square root of 225 and cubed root of 343

#3 – Order of Operations with Exponents and Roots

Next, let’s consider solving expressions with different operations. The operations may include parentheses/grouping symbols, exponents, roots, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. An expression must be solved in a specific order. The list below provides this order.

First, solve problems within grouping symbols, beginning inside the parentheses.

Second, we solve numbers with exponents and roots.

Third, working from left to right: multiplication and division

Fourth, working from left to right: addition and subtraction

Next, let’s look at the example problems with exponents and roots.

order of operations: with a square root and root
a product: introduction, practice with exponents and roots

#4 – Resources for Practice

Likewise, examples and practice provide the best way to increase skills. Below are suggested resources.

A. Discover How to Simplify Exponents and Roots

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Introduction-to-Exponents-Roots-and-Pascals-Triangle-6304914

B. Discover a List of Exponent and Square Root Values

list of squares and cubes

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/LIST-of-SQUARES-CUBES-and-ROOTS-7501778

C. Practice Solving Order of Operations with Exponents and Square Roots

order of operations: exponents and square roots practice resource

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Order-of-Operations-with-Squared-Numbers-and-Square-Roots-Self-Check-Worksheets-13011659

D. Practice Solving Order of Operations with Exponents and Cube Roots

order of operations: practice with cubed numbers and cubed roots

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Order-of-Operations-Numbers-Cubed-and-Cubed-Roots-Self-Check-Worksheets-13018127

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how to simplify exponents and roots provides success for the order of operations and future math concepts used in many careers.

Other Related Posts:

Exponents and Roots: How to Teach with Success
Exponents in Pre-Algebra: How to Easily Explain

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