The Product Rule is used to save some steps when finding the answer to two or more powers that are multiplied together. In order to use this rule, the bases must be the same. Here's an example, using two different powers of 2: 23 x 24 This question can be done by working out each power: 23 x 24 = 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 How many two's are there altogether? There are 7 of them. This means you can write the answer as 27 So that means 23 x 24 = 27 = 128 Do you see the rule? Count the exponents of 2 in the question. If you think you know the rule, try this one. 31 x 32 x 32 Count the exponents. The sum is 5. So 31 x 32 x 32 = 35 = 243 The Product Rule won't work out the final answer for you ... you'll still have to do that. But it lets you combine many powers into just one, as long as the bases are the same! Here's another one. 102 x 103 x 101 The answer is 106, which equals 1,000,000 The Product Rule says: "When multiplying two or more powers that have the same base, you keep the base and add the exponents." Here are a few questions for you to try on your own. Again, when your mouse pointer is placed over the correct answer, it will tell you. We won't use final answers this time, just the answer to the product rule! Find the answer: Find the missing power: Possible answers: Were you able to answer these questions correctly? If yes, then you're ready to try another page. Next is the 'Quotient Rule' Powers Introduction Simple Powers | Product Rule | Quotient Rule | Power Rule Zero Exponent | Negative Exponents Main Page