Multiplying and Dividing Numbers in Scientific Notation

Scientific notation is a convenient way to express very large or very small numbers. It's written as:

$a \times 10^n$ Where:

• $a$ is the coefficient (a number between 1 and 10)
• $n$ is the exponent of 10

Multiplying in Scientific Notation

To multiply numbers in scientific notation, follow these steps:

1. Multiply the coefficients (the numbers before the $\times 10$).
2. Add the exponents of the powers of 10.
3. Adjust the result if necessary to ensure the coefficient is between 1 and 10.

Example:

$(3 \times 10^4) \times (2 \times 10^6)$

1. Multiply the coefficients: $3 \times 2 = 6$
2. Add the exponents: $4 + 6 = 10$
3. Final answer: $6 \times 10^{10}$

Dividing in Scientific Notation

To divide numbers in scientific notation, follow these steps:

1. Divide the coefficients.
2. Subtract the exponents of the powers of 10 (subtract the exponent of the denominator from the exponent of the numerator).
3. Adjust the result if necessary to keep the coefficient between 1 and 10.

Example:

$\frac{8 \times 10^5}{4 \times 10^3}$

1. Divide the coefficients: $\frac{8}{4} = 2$
2. Subtract the exponents: $5 - 3 = 2$
3. Final answer: $2 \times 10^2$

General Rules:

• When multiplying, add the exponents.
• When dividing, subtract the exponents.

Tip:

Ensure the coefficient is always between 1 and 10 after performing the multiplication or division. If not, adjust the exponent by shifting the decimal point of the coefficient.

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Let me know if you want more details or have any questions!

Here are some follow-up questions for you to consider:

1. How would you multiply $5 \times 10^7$ by $3 \times 10^3$?
2. How would you divide $9 \times 10^8$ by $3 \times 10^4$?
3. What happens if the coefficient in scientific notation is not between 1 and 10?
4. Can you express $0.00056$ in scientific notation?
5. How would you multiply more than two numbers in scientific notation?

Tip: Always handle coefficients and exponents separately when multiplying or dividing in scientific notation!