Question

Subtract numbers in scientific notation quick check

Answer 1

To subtract numbers in scientific notation, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the exponents of the numbers are the same.
2. Subtract the coefficients of the numbers.
3. Keep the exponent the same as the original numbers.

For example, to subtract 2.0 x 10^4 from 5.8 x 10^3:

Step 1: Adjust the exponents to be the same by shifting the decimal point:
2.0 x 10^4 becomes 20 x 10^3 (adjusted by dividing the exponent by 10)
5.8 x 10^3 stays the same.

Step 2: Subtract the coefficients:
20 - 5.8 = 14.2

Step 3: Keep the exponent the same:
14.2 x 10^3 (or simply 1.42 x 10^4 if you prefer to express it in scientific notation)

So, the result of subtracting 2.0 x 10^4 from 5.8 x 10^3 is 1.42 x 10^4 (or 14.2 x 10^3).