Anything to the Power of Zero is One
The expression (3x)^0 is a simple example of a fundamental rule in mathematics: any number raised to the power of zero equals one. This holds true for any non-zero value of x.
Here's why:
- Understanding Exponents: An exponent indicates how many times a base number is multiplied by itself. For example, 3^2 means 3 * 3 = 9.
- Zero Exponent: A zero exponent means the base number is multiplied by itself zero times. In essence, we're not multiplying anything at all.
- The Identity Element of Multiplication: The number 1 is the identity element for multiplication. This means that multiplying any number by 1 leaves the number unchanged.
Therefore, (3x)^0 = 1
Important Note: This rule does not apply to zero itself. Zero raised to the power of zero (0^0) is undefined in mathematics.