Question

find the missing exponent: $p^{2} \cdot p^{0} \cdot p^{3} \cdot p^{\square} = p^{9}$

Explanation:

Step1: Apply exponent product rule

When multiplying terms with the same base, add exponents: $p^{2+0+3+\square}=p^9$

Step2: Sum known exponents

Calculate sum of given exponents: $2+0+3=5$, so $p^{5+\square}=p^9$

Step3: Solve for missing exponent

Set exponents equal: $5+\square=9$, so $\square=9-5$

Answer:

$4$