3. Scientific Notation
Just as exponents are a shorthand method
representing multiplication, scientific notation is
a shorthand method for representing vary large
(distance from Earth to the Sun) and very small
(width of an atom) numbers.
As with exponents, very specific rules apply to their
proper use. Unlike exponents, the rules are few
and straightforward.
6. From
To
How
Scientific
Notation
Standard Form:
1.86 • 106 = 1,860,000
Large Number Move decimal 6 places to the right. Add zeroes if
needed.
Scientific
Notation
Standard Form:
1.86 •10-5 = .0000186
Small Number Move decimal 5 places to the left. Add zeroes if
needed.
Standard
Form
Scientific
Notation:
Large Number
Standard
Form
Scientific
Notation:
Small Number
Standard
Form:
With
Decimals
Scientific
Notation:
With Decimals
1,860,000 = 1.86 • 106
Begin at far right of number. Count place values
moving left until there is a single digit to the left.
Place decimal point here.
1.28 •10-3 = .00128
Begin at decimal and move 3 places to the left.
Add zeroes if needed.
2
135.6 = 1.356 • 10
Begin one place to the right of first number.
Count places until you reach original decimal
point.