How to Calculate 2 to the 3rd Power (Step-by-Step)
An exponent expression consists of two main parts: the base and the exponent (or power).
Base: 2 — the number being multiplied
Exponent: 3 — the number of times the base is multiplied by itself
Step-by-Step Calculation:
Because raising a number to the third power can represent finding the volume of a 3D cube, calculating 2 to the 3rd power is also referred to as "2 cubed."
Powers of 2 Quick Reference Table
Early Powers of 2
To build speed in basic algebra, it helps to memorize the early powers of 2:
How to Calculate Fractions Raised to the 3rd Power
A common variation in math tests involves raising a fraction like 2/3 to the 3rd power instead of a whole number.
When evaluating 2/3 to the 3rd power, represented as (2/3)3, you apply the exponent to both the numerator (top number) and the denominator (bottom number):
2 × 2 × 2 = 8
3 × 3 × 3 = 27
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 2 times 3 and 2 to the 3rd power?
2 × 3 is simple multiplication: 2 × 3 = 6. Asking what is 2 to the 3rd power involves repeated multiplication: 2 × 2 × 2 = 8.
Why is raising to the 3rd power called "cubing"?
Raising a number to the 3rd power can represent calculating the volume of a cube. If a cube has edges measuring 2 units each, its volume is:
How do you evaluate a fraction like 2/3 to the 3rd power on a calculator?
Enter the fraction in parentheses, (2/3), press the exponent key (^ or yx), type 3, and press Enter.
The calculator will display approximately 0.296296..., which is equivalent to 8/27.
