Scientific Notation Calculator
Perform calculations with numbers in scientific notation. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide scientific notation.
× 10
×
× 10
Try:
How to Use
- Select the operation (add, subtract, multiply, divide)
- Enter the first number's coefficient and exponent
- Enter the second number's coefficient and exponent
- Click "Calculate" to see the result with steps
What is Scientific Notation Calculator?
Scientific notation calculator performs arithmetic with numbers in scientific notation (a × 10^n format). It handles addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, showing the step-by-step process and normalizing the result.
Formula
Operations:
Multiply: (a×10^m) × (b×10^n) = (a×b) × 10^(m+n)
Divide: (a×10^m) ÷ (b×10^n) = (a÷b) × 10^(m-n)
Add/Subtract: Convert to same exponent first, then add/subtract coefficients
Examples
- (3×10⁴) × (2×10³) = 6×10⁷
- (8×10⁶) ÷ (4×10²) = 2×10⁴
- (5×10³) + (3×10³) = 8×10³
FAQ
Why use scientific notation for calculations?
Scientific notation makes it much easier to multiply and divide very large or small numbers. You just multiply/divide the coefficients and add/subtract the exponents.
What does 'normalizing' mean?
Normalizing ensures the coefficient is between 1 and 10. For example, 25 × 10³ would be normalized to 2.5 × 10⁴ by moving the decimal and adjusting the exponent.
How do I add numbers with different exponents?
Convert both to the same exponent (usually the larger one), then add the coefficients. For example: 3×10⁴ + 5×10³ = 3×10⁴ + 0.5×10⁴ = 3.5×10⁴