Mathematics GCSE
negative indices
What negative indices means in Mathematics GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of negative indices
Check what you remember
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Reference: Pearson Edexcel
For a non-zero base, a negative index means the reciprocal of the matching positive power, so 2⁻³ = 1/2³ = 1/8.
Topics that use negative indices
- Number - Structure and calculation (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Base
- cancelling common factors
- Circumference
- Counting without replacement
- denominator
- equivalent fractions
- Error interval
- estimating roots
Using negative indices in the exam
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