Power calculator
Raise a base to an exponent, including negative exponents and real-valued fractional powers where a real result exists.
Result for the values shown.
Calculations run in your browser.
What to enter
| Input | Meaning and units |
|---|---|
| Base | Enter base using the definition in the method and example. |
| Exponent | Enter exponent using the definition in the method and example. |
Understanding your result
Read Power in the units and model stated on this page. The formula result = base^exponent defines the relationship; measurement accuracy and model applicability are separate from numerical precision.
Common mistakes
- Using a different mathematical definition or operation than the one stated by this tool.
Check your calculation
- Use the worked example as a known reference case, then change one input at a time and check the direction and units of the response.
Calculation checks, sources and review limits
What is a number raised to this power?
Enter a base and exponent. A negative exponent gives a reciprocal; a supported fractional exponent can give a root. The result must be real and finite.
Common uses
- Calculate repeated multiplication as a power.
- Evaluate negative exponents or supported fractional powers.
How it works
A positive whole exponent means repeated multiplication. Negative exponents take a reciprocal. This tool returns real floating-point results only; a negative base with a non-integer exponent is outside its supported real calculation. It uses the programming convention 0⁰ = 1.
Worked example
2¹⁰ = 1,024; 2⁻³ = 0.125; 9⁰·⁵ = 3.