The base of a power is the number being multiplied by itself. In 5 to the power of 3, the base is 5 and the exponent 3 says to use it three times as a factor.
Math Dictionary / Base
Base
A base is the number or expression that is repeatedly multiplied when using an exponent.
AlgebraGrade 6Grade 7Grade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT
What it means
In 7^3, the base is 7. The exponent tells how many times to use the base as a factor.
Also called: exponential base
Examples
| In 4^5, the base is 4 |
| In x^2, the base is x |
| In 10^3, the base is 10 |
Common mistake
Do not confuse the base with the exponent. In 3^4, 3 is the base and 4 is the exponent.
Try one
Question: What is the base in 6^2?
Show answer
The base is 6.