Composite Base

Definition

Composite Base in plain English

Reach for Composite Base when place value or exponent work sits on a composite base that factors. Clues include base 12, base 10 digits, or rewrite a^n - b^n. Factor the composite base or the difference of powers before counting digits or factors. Leaving the base opaque hides cancellation and digit carries that factorization makes obvious. Difference of powers formulas are often the unlock. Micro-example: compare 12^2 - 1 with (12-1)(12+1) = 11 × 13. Factoring the composite-powered difference reveals the factors immediately instead of expanding a large square first. When digits sit in an unusual base, factor that base first so place values become ordinary products you can compare.

Related GMAT terms

• Harmonic Mean
• Complement Rule
• Standard Double-Matrix
• Linear Multi-Count Equation
• Complement Extreme Shortcut
• Slicing Isolated Pools
• Isolated Element Identity
• Slot Method
• Glue-Block Permutation
• Total Minus Unwanted