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Course homeModule I-02 · Recommended before: Before calculations with atomic-scale quantities
Scientific notation and calculator entry
Chemistry requires very large and small values. A number in scientific notation has a coefficient and a power of ten. Use EE or EXP notation on a scientific calculator.
Learn the method
a × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ |a| < 10
- Write a number as a coefficient from 1 to less than 10 times a power of ten.
- A positive exponent means the decimal moves right; a negative exponent means it moves left.
- Perform exponent arithmetic separately from coefficient arithmetic.
- Check calculator parentheses and EE notation.
Common mistake: 4.50 × 10⁻⁴ is not the same as 4.50 × 10⁴.
Worked example
Problem: Convert 0.000450 to scientific notation.
Step-by-step solution: 0.000450 = 4.50 × 10⁻⁴. Its three significant figures remain visible.
Check the units and whether the answer is reasonable before continuing.
More applications of this mathematics
Try each extension before expanding its solution.
Scientific calculator entry
Enter 6.02 × 10²³ using the calculator’s EE/EXP key. Do not type a separate ×10 unless the calculator requires it.
Exponent arithmetic
(3.0 × 10⁵)/(6.0 × 10²) = (3.0/6.0)×10³ = 5.0 × 10².
Roots and exponent rules
√(9.0×10⁴) = 3.0×10². Taking a square root divides an even power-of-ten exponent by two.
Independent practice — five questions
Suggested mastery threshold: four out of five. Incorrect answers display a worked explanation after submission.
Supporting reference
OpenStax Chemistry 2e / NIST — reference for this subject. This lesson’s wording, examples and questions are original.
IntoChemistry original instructional content, 2026. Formative feedback is not an official course grade. Sources are linked for independent reading. Accessibility testing with your institution and assistive technology is still recommended.