Algebra 1 · Polynomials & Exponents

Scientific Notation

Algebra 1 · Polynomials & Exponents

Definition

Scientific notation writes a number as a x 10^n, where 1 <= a < 10 and n is an integer.

Examples

  • 4,500 = 4.5 x 10^3.
  • 0.006 = 6 x 10^-3.

Key rule

Move the decimal so one nonzero digit sits in front, then count places.

Memory hook

Scientific notation: one digit, a decimal, and a power of ten.