1.3 Powers

There are several keys on the calculator that enable you to perform calculations involving powers. For small powers such as squares or cubes there are dedicated buttons, and , which are located in the function key area of the keypad. These are used in a similar manner to how you would write mathematics; for example, to enter you would press . The display also shows the maths in the same way as you would write it on paper.

To calculate higher powers, for example , you need to use the more general power key . This is again used in a natural way. To enter , you use the key sequence . Note that after you press the key, a small box is shown on the calculator display containing the flashing cursor (‘ ’), which enables you to enter the power in the correct place. To move the cursor away from this box and back to the main line of the display once the power has been entered, press the right arrow key at the right-hand side of the large cursor control button.

Figure 5 The general power key function

Show description|Hide description

The top row of the screen contains the letter D (white text on black) in the centre, and the word ‘math’ towards the right end. The second row of the screen has the mathematical text 2 with, immediately to the right, a raised small empty box.

Figure 5 The general power key function