Exponents are used as a short way to represent a number. The exponent is number of times the basis multiplies by itself. The integer X is called the base and Y is called the exponent. For example, 27 can be represented as 3*3*3. 27 is exponent and 3*3*3 is the base.

An exponent is an algebraic term used to describe a letter that stands in place of a number whose quantity is yet unknown. Exponents are used in formulas and equations usually to help identify the value and solution of that formula or equation.