What Does 21/2 Represent in Mathematics?

[mikedamike]

Hi,

This is no doubt a real simple question

does 2^1/2 mean 2^0.5 or 2¹

Thanks in advance

Mike

 

[berkeman]

Hi,

This is no doubt a real simple question

does 2^1/2 mean 2^0.5 or 2¹

Thanks in advance

Mike

It means 2^0.5 or √2

Why would it mean 2¹ ?

 

[mikedamike]

Sorry, i was 99.99% sure it was 2^0.5 but it was one of those questions you ask when your brain gets wound up from learning a new equation and then you take a step back and its blindingly obvious. Thanks for reply though.

 

[HallsofIvy]

1 is NOT the same as 1/2!