Powers: Reverse Rules - Multiplying Powers with the same Base

The following is a basic algebra practice exercise, and not a GMAT-level problem. Which of the following expressions is equivalent to $$3^{x+2}$$?

Incorrect. [[snippet]]

Correct. [[snippet]] $$3^{x+2}$$ is split into a multiplication of powers with base 3. >$$3^x \cdot 3^2$$ Note that this is completely equivalent to $$3^2 \cdot 3^x$$ since the order of the multiplication does not matter. Also, since $$3^2 = 9$$, the expression above is also equal to $$9 \cdot 3^x$$.

Incorrect. Don't fall for this trap. A "+" sign in the exponent does not mean that the powers themselves have been added: For a counter example, $$2^2 + 2^2$$ does not equal $$2^{2+2} = 2^4=16$$. [[snippet]]

$$3^x \cdot 3^2$$

$$3^{x^2}$$

$$3^x + 3^2$$