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Paper 3

Surds & Indices

Higher
Practice this
Notebook with algebra and roots

Keep surd simplification steps neat.

Key Facts

  • a^(m) × a^(n) = a^(m+n)
  • a^(-n) = 1/a^n

Topics Covered

Simplify Surds

What you need to know

  • Factor into square numbers to simplify.

Exam Tips

  • Look for factors like 4, 9, 16.

Index Laws

What you need to know

  • a^m × a^n = a^(m+n).
  • a^0 = 1.

Exam Tips

  • Match bases before applying laws.

Key Terms

Surd

An irrational root left in exact form.

Index

The power that shows how many times to multiply.

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Common Exam Questions

Simplify √98.

2 marksmediumPaper 3

Model Answer

7√2

What examiners want to see

  • Factor 98 into 49 × 2.

Simplify 5^3 × 5^2.

1 markeasyPaper 3

Model Answer

5^5

What examiners want to see

  • Add the powers.

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