Question

What do you look at to compare numbers in scientific notation?

Answer 1

To compare numbers in scientific notation, you need to consider the powers of 10 and the coefficients. It is important to compare the numerical values of the coefficients (the numbers before the multiplication symbol) first. If the coefficients are not equal, then the number with the larger coefficient is considered larger.

If the coefficients are equal, you then compare the powers of 10. If the power of 10 in one number is larger, that indicates that the number is larger. Conversely, if the power of 10 in one number is smaller, that indicates that the number is smaller.

Here is a step-by-step process to compare numbers in scientific notation:

1. Compare the coefficients (the numbers before the multiplication symbol). The number with the larger coefficient is considered larger.

2. If the coefficients are equal, compare the powers of 10:
a. If the power of 10 in one number is larger, that number is larger.
b. If the power of 10 in one number is smaller, that number is smaller.

By following these steps, you can accurately compare numbers in scientific notation.