If N is a decimal number, then in N= a x 10" where 1 Sa<10 and n is an integer
To change a decimal number to scientific notation:
1. Rewrite the number placing the decimal to the right of the first non-zero digit of the number.
Drop any unnecessary zeros.
2. Write "x 10" after the new number.
3. Count the number of spaces the decimal moved from the original spot. This number is the
exponent on the “10.” When counting from the new decimal back to the original decimal...
If the original decimal is to the right of the new decimal, the exponent is positive.
If the original decimal is to the left of the new decimal, the exponent is negative.
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To change from scientific notation to a decimal number:
1. Drop the “x 10”.”
2. Move the decimal the same number of spaces as the exponent on the “10."
If the exponent is positive, move right.
If the exponent is negative, move left.
3. Place a zero in any empty spaces.
Same direction as
the number line