Multiplying Numbers in Scientific Notation: A Simple Guide
Scientific notation is a handy way to represent very large or very small numbers. When multiplying numbers in scientific notation, we apply the following rules:
- Multiply the coefficients: The coefficients are the numbers in front of the powers of ten.
- Add the exponents: The exponents represent the power of ten.
Let's illustrate this with the example you provided: (2 x 10^3) (3 x 10^8)
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Multiply the coefficients: 2 x 3 = 6
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Add the exponents: 3 + 8 = 11
Therefore, the product of (2 x 10^3) (3 x 10^8) is 6 x 10^11.
In summary:
- When multiplying numbers in scientific notation, multiply the coefficients and add the exponents.
This simple approach allows us to work efficiently with very large and very small numbers, making calculations much easier.