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Exponent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exponent

[ษชkหˆspoสŠ.nษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

An exponent is a mathematical notation that indicates how many times a number, known as the base, is multiplied by itself. For example, in the expression 2^3 (2 raised to the power of 3), 2 is the base, and 3 is the exponent, which equals 8. Exponents are used to simplify calculations and represent very large or very small numbers in a more manageable form. They follow specific rules, such as the product of powers rule and the power of a power rule.

Synonyms

index, ord, power.

Examples of usage

  • 2 raised to the power of 3 equals 8.
  • The exponent in 5^2 tells you to multiply 5 by itself.
  • Using exponents can simplify calculations in algebra.
Context #2 | Noun

advocacy

An exponent can also refer to an advocate or supporter of a particular cause, idea, or practice. In this context, the term is used to describe someone who actively promotes or champions a belief or principle. Exponents often work to influence others and raise awareness about their chosen topic, playing a significant role in social movements or campaigns.

Synonyms

advocate, promoter, supporter.

Examples of usage

  • She is a strong exponent of environmental conservation.
  • They became exponents of public health reform.
  • As an exponent of education, he fought for better schools.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Exponents are used to simplify calculations; for example, 3^4 means 3 multiplied by itself 4 times (3 x 3 x 3 x 3).
  • The laws of exponents help manage equations involving multiple numbers raised to powers, making it easier to solve problems.
  • In mathematics, exponents can also express very large or very small numbers using scientific notation.

Historical Origins

  • The concept of exponents dates back to ancient civilizations, with mathematicians like the Babylonians using forms of multiplication.
  • In the 16th century, European mathematicians formalized exponent rules, aiding in algebra and calculus development.
  • The term 'exponent' comes from the Latin 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth' or 'to set forth', reflecting its role in expressing repeated multiplication.

Pop Culture

  • In video games, character traits are often measured with exponents to show how powerful a character becomes as they level up.
  • Some movies reference mathematical concepts like exponents as a way to depict characters with extraordinary intelligence or abilities.
  • Exponential growth is often depicted in sci-fi as a rapid rise in technology or power, showcasing its cultural significance.

Science

  • Many scientific phenomena, like population growth, can be modeled using exponential functions to demonstrate fast increases over time.
  • In physics, the decay of radioactive materials is often explained by using exponents to show how much material remains over time.
  • In chemistry, rates of reaction frequently involve exponents to illustrate changes in reaction speed related to concentration.

Origin of 'exponent'

The word 'exponent' originates from the Latin term 'exponens', which is the present participle of 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth or explain'. The root 'ponere' means 'to place or put'. In the context of mathematics, the term gained prominence in the 16th century as mathematicians sought to formalize the concept of powers and roots. The diverse usage of the term has evolved since then, with its mathematical meaning being widely adopted in various fields, including science and engineering. In advocacy, 'exponent' gained traction in the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting the increasing importance of individuals who actively support social causes and reforms.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,580, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.