If you multiply a^5 by a^2, what is the result?

If you multiply a^5 by a^2, what is the result?

• A. a
• B. a^2
• C. a^3
• D. a^7

Answer: (D)

When multiplying powers with the same base, you add the exponents. So a^5 times a^2 keeps the base a and adds 5 and 2: 5 + 2 = 7, giving a^7. The other forms would imply exponents of 1, 2, or 3, which don’t come from adding 5 and 2.

When multiplying powers with the same base, you add the exponents. So a^5 times a^2 keeps the base a and adds 5 and 2: 5 + 2 = 7, giving a^7. The other forms would imply exponents of 1, 2, or 3, which don’t come from adding 5 and 2.