What is the missing number in this simplified exponential expression:

Question

7^? ÷ 7^5 = 7^12 ?

Answer 1

The missing number in the simplified exponential expression is 7.

7^? ÷ 7^5 = 7^12

To solve this equation, we can use the properties of exponents. When dividing the same base with different exponents, we subtract the exponents.

Therefore, the equation becomes:

7^(? - 5) = 7^12

Since the bases are the same, the exponents on both sides of the equation must be equal.

Therefore, ? - 5 = 12

Solving for ?, we add 5 to both sides:

? = 12 + 5

? = 17

So, the missing number in the simplified exponential expression is 17.