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When someone writes:

$3^{3^3}$

Do they mean $3^{(3^{3})}=3^{27}$ OR ${{(3^3)}^3} = 27^3$ ?

There are no brackets

Please reply ... this may be a silly question ... Thanks!

NeilRoy
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    I once read that most people, regarding exponentiation, and when ambiguity is present, consider the order to be from right to left. This would mean that it is $3^{27}$. – goldenratio Apr 11 '15 at 04:09
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    Generally, the exponent is carried only by the single closest factor, and grouping symbols must be used to extend the scope of the exponent. So you likewise have that $ab^c$ means $a (b^c)$ and not $(ab)^c$, and that $a+b^c$ means $a+(b^c)$ rather than $(a+b)^c$. – MPW Apr 11 '15 at 04:13

1 Answers1

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The notation $a^{b^c}$ with no brackets would conventionally be $a^{(b^c)}$, as opposed to $(a^b)^c = a^{bc}$. Thus, in this case $3^{27}$ is probably indicated.

Rolf Hoyer
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