Negative exponents and scientific notation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving problems involving negative exponents and scientific notation. The first problem, \((10^2)^8 \div (10^{-2})^3\), correctly simplifies to \(10^{22}\). The second problem, \(1.2 \times 10^{-6} \div 4.2 \times 10^{-2}\), was initially miscalculated, but the correct result is approximately \(2.9 \times 10^{-5}\). Participants emphasize the importance of verifying calculations by multiplying the quotient by the divisor to ensure accuracy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of negative exponents
  • Familiarity with scientific notation
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Ability to perform division with scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the rules of exponents in detail
  • Practice problems involving scientific notation
  • Learn techniques for verifying calculations in algebra
  • Explore applications of scientific notation in real-world scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and anyone looking to refresh their knowledge of exponents and scientific notation, particularly in mathematical contexts.

oscar_brown
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holy cow i feel dumb...

i know these are super easy but i just can't figure it out.

1. --- (10^2)^8 divided by (10^-2)^3

2. --- 1.2x10^-6 divided by 4.2x10^-2

if anyone can give me a kick in the brain it would be awsome

1.--- 10^22?
2. -- 2.9x10^5??
 
Last edited:
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The first one is correct. The second is not (but only by a sign, typo ?). To check, multiply your quotient by the divisor to see if you get the dividend.
 
(10^2)^8\div(10^{-2})^3=10^{16}\div10^{-6}=10^{16}\cdot10^6=10^{22}

1.2\cdot10^{-6}\div\left(4.2\cdot10^{-2}\right)= 1.2\cdot10^{-6}\cdot\frac{1}{4.2}\cdot10^2= \frac{1.2}{4.2}\cdot10^{-4}=\frac27\cdot10^{-4}\approx2.9\cdot10^{-5}
 
no it wasn't a typo...just dumb
thank you so much, it is amazing how fast you forget stupid things
 

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