Scientific Notation

Definition: To express any large or small number.

In scientific notation, any number will be between 1 and 10 and multiplied by a number of 10.

Adding and Subtracting

In order to add and subtract using scientific notation, solve the equation first and then change to scientific notation.

32000+ 4000= 36000 (change to number)
= 3.6 x 10^4 (change to scientific notation)

Multiplying and Dividing

In order to multiply and divide,

1. Use the law of exponents.
2. Combine the "like" terms.

Rounding - Avoid rounding in the middle of the question. Round only at the final answer.


(3.2 x 10^2)(2.0 x 10^3) = 6.4(multiply) x 10^5(law of exponents.