Reviewed by Janice S. Armas
What is 3 to the 2nd power?
Answer: 3 to the 2nd power is 9
When a number is raised to a certain power, it means multiplying that number by itself for the specified number of times. Here, 3 to the 2nd power (written as 3²) means multiplying 3 by itself once. This is a basic example of exponentiation, a key math concept in arithmetic and algebra.
Methods
Math Tutor Explanation Using Multiplication Method
To evaluate 3 to the 2nd power, use the definition of exponents: multiply the base (3) by itself as many times as the exponent (2) indicates.
Step 1: Step 1: Recognize that 3 to the 2nd power means 3 × 3
Step 2: Step 2: Multiply 3 by 3 to get 9
Math Tutor Explanation Using Repeated Addition Visualization
While exponents really mean repeated multiplication, it can sometimes help to visualize with repeated addition for small numbers.
Step 1: Step 1: Notice that 3 × 3 means adding 3 three times (3 + 3 + 3)
Step 2: Step 2: Add 3 + 3 = 6, then 6 + 3 = 9
Step 1:
Step 2:
Math Tutor suggests: Discover More About Exponents and Powers
Want to learn more about exponents and powers? Try these related questions to deepen your understanding of how numbers are raised to different powers.
FAQ on Exponents
What does it mean to 'raise a number to a power'?
It means multiplying that number by itself as many times as the exponent indicates.
Is 3 to the 2nd power the same as 2 to the 3rd power?
No, 3 to the 2nd power is 9, while 2 to the 3rd power is 8.
What is 3^2 called in words?
Three squared' or 'three to the second power.'
How do you write 3 to the 2nd power using exponents?
You write it as 3².
What is the base and exponent in 3^2?
The base is 3 and the exponent is 2.
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