When you multiply two numbers in scientific notation, you want to follow the same set of steps each time: 1) Multiply their decimal numbers, 2) Multiply their powers of 10. By the rules of exponents, we add the exponents when we do this, and 3) Express the results together in proper scientific notation.
Read MoreDividing one number by another in scientific notation is really similar to multiplying two numbers in scientific notation, because we’re basically following the same steps. First, we’ll divide their decimal numbers, then we’ll divide their powers of 10. By the rules of exponents, we subtract the exponents when we do this. Finally, we express the results together in proper scientific notation.
Read MoreWith scientific notation, we’re able to express really really big numbers without all the digits and write a simpler number that quickly tells us how big the number is. So scientific notation can be used to express really, really big numbers, but it can also be used to express really, really small numbers.
Read MoreSometimes we’ll have problems where we’re asked to multiply and divide scientific notation at the same time. It doesn’t matter if we do the multiplication first and then the division, or the division first and then the multiplication. Either way, our process for multiplying scientific notation doesn’t change, and our process for dividing scientific notation doesn’t change.
Read MoreMost of the time we’ll be finding exact values with scientific notation, but sometimes it’s nice just to get a quick estimate of the value of an expression. This is a simple process where we round the decimal numbers, and then do our multiplication and/or division. Obviously we don’t get a result that’s quite as accurate, but the process is a little quicker, so it’s a trade-off.
Read MoreScientific notation is all about proper form. There’s only format that qualifies as proper scientific notation, and that’s the product of a decimal term and a power of 10. Moreover, the number to the left of the decimal point must be between 1 and 9.
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