Question

Solve the following and write in scientific notation:

1.2 x 10^ 8 / 4 x 10 ^3

Answer 1

To divide the numbers in scientific notation, you can divide the coefficients and subtract the exponents.

Here's the calculation step-by-step:

1. Divide the coefficients:
\[
\frac{1.2}{4} = 0.3
\]

2. Subtract the exponents:
\[
10^{8 - 3} = 10^5
\]

3. Combine the results:
\[
0.3 \times 10^5
\]

Now we need to express \(0.3\) in scientific notation. \(0.3\) can be written as \(3.0 \times 10^{-1}\).

Now, multiply this with \(10^5\):
\[
3.0 \times 10^{-1} \times 10^5 = 3.0 \times 10^{5 - 1} = 3.0 \times 10^4
\]

So, the final answer in scientific notation is:
\[
\boxed{3.0 \times 10^4}
\]