When multiplying exponential expressions with the same base, \( \square \) the exponents.

When multiplying exponential expressions with the same base, you simply add the exponents. For example, if you have \( a^m \times a^n \), it simplifies to \( a^{m+n} \). This rule makes calculations involving powers much easier and is foundational in algebraic manipulations. Just remember: when the base is the same, it's time to combine those exponents! A fun way to visualize this is by using a cake metaphor. Imagine you have a cake recipe that has to be doubled (that's your base). If you double the recipe (multiply), you add the ingredients together. Similarly, when you multiply exponential terms, you’re just adding the power levels of the ingredients—that’s how you get an even bigger cake! So next time you're scaling up a recipe, think of it in terms of exponents!