exponential rule
nounUK /ˌekspəˈnenʃəl ruːl/
US /ˌekspəˈnenʃəl ruːl/
A math rule that tells you how to work with numbers that grow by multiplying again and again.
Using the exponential rule, we can simplify x squared times x cubed to x to the fifth power.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The rule that when you multiply powers with the same base, you add the exponents.
By the exponential rule, 2 cubed times 2 squared equals 2 to the fifth power.
3. The rule that when you raise a power to another power, you multiply the exponents.
The exponential rule says (3 squared) cubed equals 3 to the sixth power.
4. A rule describing growth that keeps multiplying by the same factor.
Bacteria can follow an exponential rule, doubling in number every hour.