Adding and Subtracting Scientific Notation

This lesson covers adding and subtracting numbers in scientific notation, emphasizing the importance of having equal exponents. It includes examples of both operations with equal and unequal exponents, and applies these concepts to real-world problems like population calculations. The lesson concludes with a brief explanation of how scientific notation is represented on calculators using 'e' notation.

What is the key concept to remember when adding or subtracting numbers in scientific notation?

• The numbers must be positive.

• The numbers must be integers.

• The numbers must have the same power of 10.

• The numbers must have the same base.

In the example 8.9 x 10^10 + 4.8 x 10^10, what is the correct scientific notation for the result?

• 13.7 x 10^10

• 1.37 x 10^11

• 137 x 10^9

• 0.137 x 10^12

When adding 3.8 x 10^5 and 6.1 x 10^4, why is it recommended to adjust the smaller exponent to match the larger one?

• It simplifies the calculation.

• It reduces the risk of errors.

• It avoids additional work at the end.

• It ensures the result is in correct scientific notation.

What adjustment is made to the number 6.1 x 10^4 to match the exponent of 3.8 x 10^5?

• Change to 6.1 x 10^5

• Change to 0.61 x 10^5

• Change to 61 x 10^3

• Change to 0.061 x 10^6

In the subtraction example 7.6 x 10^3 - 6.8 x 10^3, what is the correct scientific notation for the result?

• 0.8 x 10^3

• 8 x 10^2

• 80 x 10^1

• 0.08 x 10^4

Why is it necessary to adjust the result of 0.8 x 10^3 to 8 x 10^2?

• To simplify the calculation.

• To make the number larger.

• To ensure a single digit before the decimal.

• To match the original exponents.

How do you adjust the number 3.38 x 10^7 to match the exponent of 1.1 x 10^8?

• Change to 33.8 x 10^6

• Change to 0.338 x 10^8

• Change to 0.0338 x 10^9

• Change to 3.38 x 10^8

What is the population of North America when adding the populations of Canada, the US, and Mexico in scientific notation?

• 45.38 x 10^7

• 4.538 x 10^8

• 453.8 x 10^6

• 0.4538 x 10^9

How is scientific notation represented on most calculators?

• Using 'power' notation

• Using 'exp' notation

• Using 'E' notation

• Using 'x10' notation

If a calculator displays 7.41e13, what does it mean in scientific notation?

• 7.41 x 10^13

• 741 x 10^11

• 74.1 x 10^12

• 0.741 x 10^14