Scientific Notation Converter
Convert numbers to and from scientific notation. Free scientific notation converter.
Try:
Standard to Scientific
Scientific to Standard
× 10
Quick Reference
103 = 1,000
10-3 = 0.001
106 = 1,000,000
10-6 = 0.000001
109 = 1 billion
10-9 = 1 billionth
How to Use
- To convert TO scientific: enter a standard number and click Convert
- To convert FROM scientific: enter coefficient and exponent
- View both representations
- Copy the E-notation for calculators
What is Scientific Notation Converter?
Scientific notation expresses numbers as a coefficient between 1 and 10 multiplied by a power of 10. It's used for very large numbers (like distances in space) or very small numbers (like atomic sizes) to make them easier to read and calculate with.
Formula
Scientific Notation Format:
a × 10^n where 1 ≤ |a| < 10
Conversion: Move decimal until coefficient is between 1 and 10
Count moves = exponent (positive if moved left, negative if moved right)
Examples
- 123,000 = 1.23 × 10⁵
- 0.00045 = 4.5 × 10⁻⁴
- 6,022,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 = 6.022 × 10²³ (Avogadro's number)
FAQ
What does E-notation mean?
E-notation (like 3.5E6) is how calculators and computers display scientific notation. 3.5E6 means 3.5 × 10⁶ = 3,500,000. The E stands for 'exponent.'
When should I use scientific notation?
Use it for very large numbers (>10,000) or very small numbers (<0.001), in scientific calculations, or when you need to show significant figures clearly.
How do I handle negative exponents?
A negative exponent means the number is less than 1. Move the decimal point left for negative exponents: 10⁻³ = 0.001.