Question

when simplifying exponents you must make sure that the _____ are the same before using any exponent rule

Answer 1

base

Explanation:

When you simplify exponents, you must make sure that the base are the same before using any exponent rule.

(e.g.)
`x^n * x^m = x^n^+^m` have the same base (which is x), therefore, you can simplify the exponents.