Question

What is the rule for subtraction with exponents?

Answer 1

As explained

Explanation:

Adding and Subtracting Quantities with Exponents. We cannot simplify by grouping two terms together unless they have the same base and the same exponent.

For example, we cannot combine terms in expressions such as `5^2 +12^2` or `5^3 +5^4`.

We can, however, simplify

`4^5 +4^5` as `2*(4^5) = 2 * (2^5)^2 = 2^1 * 2^10 = 2^11`

`2^2 +2^2 = 2* 2^2 = 2^1 * 2^2 = 2^3`