1. Let's clarify the concept of exponents. 2. When a number has no visible exponent, it actually means the exponent is 1, not 0. 3. For example, $5$ is the same as $5^1$. 4. The exponent 0 means the number is raised to the power zero, which always equals 1 (except for 0 itself). 5. For example, $5^0 = 1$. 6. So, if you see a number without an exponent, assume it has an exponent of 1, not 0. 7. Summary: No exponent means power 1, exponent 0 means the value is 1.