Significant Figures and Scientific Notation

Question 1

Adding and Subtracting Using Scientific Notation

Answer 1

+All exponents MUST BE THE SAME before you can add and subtract numbers in scientific notation

+The actual addition or subtraction will take place with the numerical portion, NOT the exponent.

Question 2

Significant Figures (Sig Figs)

Answer 2

+a number are those digits that carry meaning contributing to its accuracy.

Question 3

Non-Zero

Answer 3

+Non-zero digits are always significant.

+Example:

• 12.3
• 34918
• 23918439
• 1

Question 4

Diet Sandwich

Answer 4

+Zeros following a non-zero number and followed by a decimal.

+Example:

• 100.
• 40.

+Non-Examples:

• 100
• 40

Question 5

Multiplying in Scientific Notation

Answer 5

+To multiply two numbers in scientific notation, multiply their coefficients and add their exponents.

+Convert answer to scientific notation.

Question 6

Trailing Zeros

Answer 6

+a DECIMAL and nonzero number are significant.

+Example:

• 2.00
• 0.0030
• 2.00x10^9

Question 7

Sandwich

Answer 7

+All zeros between other significant digits are significant.

+Example:

• 101
• 20003
• 1050505

Question 8

Divide Using Scientific Notation

Answer 8

+To divide two numbers in scientific notation, divide their coefficients and subtract their exponents.

+Convert answer to scientific notation.