How do you multiply #(7xx10^-6)(6xx10^-3)#?

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Answer 1 · 2018-05-12T09:57:55

#= 4.2 xx 10^-8#

Compare this question with an algebraic product:

#3x^5 xx 5x^2#

We would not hesitate in multiplying the numbers and then adding the indices of the same bases, #x#.

#3x^5 xx 5x^2 =3xx5xx x^5 xx x^2#

#= 15x^7#

Do exactly the same with the numbers in scientific notation.

Multiply the numbers and then adding the indices of the same bases, #10#.

#7 xx10^-6 xx 10^-3#

#= 7xx6 xx10^-6 xx10^-3#

#=42 xx 10^-9#

Change to scientific notation. #42 = 4.2 xx 10#

#= 4.2 xx 10^-8#