Scientific Notation Calculator
Convert any number to scientific notation, or convert scientific notation to standard form. Essential for very large or very small numbers in physics, chemistry, and astronomy.
Scientific Notation Guide
Format Rules
Scientific notation: a × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ |a| < 10. To convert 456,000: move decimal left 5 places → 4.56 × 10⁵. For 0.000045: move right 5 places → 4.5 × 10⁻⁵.
Multiplying and Dividing
Multiply: (a₁ × 10ⁿ¹) × (a₂ × 10ⁿ²) = (a₁ × a₂) × 10^(n₁+n₂). Divide: (a₁ × 10ⁿ¹) ÷ (a₂ × 10ⁿ²) = (a₁ ÷ a₂) × 10^(n₁−n₂). Then normalise so the coefficient is between 1 and 10.
Engineering Notation
Engineering notation uses exponents that are multiples of 3 (kilo, mega, giga etc.). 4.56 × 10⁵ in engineering notation = 456 × 10³ = 456 kilo-units. Common prefixes: nano (10⁻⁹), micro (10⁻⁶), milli (10⁻³), kilo (10³), mega (10⁶), giga (10⁹).
Related products on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.