Zero and Negative Exponents

Zero Exponents

In the world of numbers, zero is a very significant value. Depending on the operation used, zero has the ability to drastically change the value of an expression or not change it at all. For example, consider the following:

2 · 0 = 0

2 + 0 = 2

2 − 0 = 2

Now consider the expression 20. Make a prediction about what you think the value of this expression will be. Then, use your calculator to determine its value. Was your prediction correct? Were you surprised by the value you determined by using your calculator?