Exam-style question
Try this first
Which method correctly simplifies a product of powers with the same positive base?.
- A.B1: choose the method that matches the laws of indices for all rational exponents
- B.Use any familiar GCSE calculation even if it ignores the laws of indices for all rational exponents
- C.Write only the final answer without showing the mathematical method
- D.Change the notation or restrictions to make the algebra look simpler
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The correct answer is B1: choose the method that matches the laws of indices for all rational exponents.
- It is correct because powers with the same base are combined by adding exponents, including rational exponents, while the base itself is not multiplied again.
This answer is tied to the objective: B1 Understand and use the laws of indices for all rational exponents..
Explanation
Why this works
Use the explanation to connect the worked answer back to B1 Understand and use the laws of indices for all rational exponents..
This B1 item targets the product law for indices. Students must keep the base fixed and add the exponents only when the base is the same.
The common trap is to multiply exponents or alter the base, which gives an expression that is not equivalent.
Maths method check
- Topic focus: Pure Mathematics.
- Question style: practice.
- Reasoning demand: recall.
- Check the operation, notation, units, and final answer form against the question before moving on.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.