All HiSET: Math Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Solve Problems Using Scientific Notation
Multiply, and express the product in scientific notation:
Convert 7,200,000 to scientific notation as follows:
Move the (implied) decimal point until it is immediately after the first nonzero digit (the 7). This required moving the point six units to the left:
It follows that 7,200,000 can be rewritten as .
By similar reasoning, 5,000,000 can be rewritten as .
Thus,
Rearrange and regroup the expressions so that the powers of ten are together:
Multiply the numbers in front. Also, multiply the powers of ten by adding exponents:
In order for the number to be in scientific notation, the number in front must be between 1 and 10. An adjustment must be made by moving the implied decimal point in 36 one unit left. It follows that
Therefore,
,
the correct response.
Example Question #1 : Solve Problems Using Scientific Notation
Multiply:
Express the product in scientific notation.
None of the other choices gives the correct response.
Scientific notation refers to a number expressed in the form
,
where and is an integer.
Each factor can be rewritten in scientific notation as follows:
Now, substitute:
Apply the Product of Powers Property:
This is in scientific notation and is the correct choice.