8th Grade · Expressions & Equations

Quotient Rule

8.EE.A.1

Definition

When dividing powers with the same base, keep the base and subtract the exponents. x to the a divided by x to the b equals x to the a minus b.

Examples

  • x⁷ ÷ x³ = x⁴.
  • Order matters — it's the top exponent minus the bottom exponent.

Key rule

Subtract the exponents (top minus bottom) when dividing powers with the same base.

Memory hook

Same base, dividing — subtract the exponents.