1. Multiplying in scientific notation
Step One: Make sure both numbers are in scientific notation
PPS p. 370
Step Two: Multiply the front numbers
4.2 x 2
Step Three: Multiply the base 10 by using properties of exponents
𝟏𝟎 𝟒 x 𝟏𝟎 𝟑 = 𝟏𝟎 𝟒+𝟑 = 𝟏𝟎 𝟕
Step Four: Write your solution. Make sure it is properly put in scientific notation.
8.4 x 𝟏𝟎 𝟕

2. Dividing in scientific notation
Step One: Make sure both numbers are in scientific notation
PPS p. 370
Step Two: Round the front numbers to the nearest whole number.
6.39 = 6 3 = 3 (already rounded to the nearest whole number)
Step Three: Divide the front numbers.
6 ÷𝟑=𝟐
Step Four: Divide the base 10 by using properties of exponents
𝟏𝟎 −𝟐 ÷ 𝟏𝟎 −𝟑 = 𝟏𝟎 −𝟐 −(−𝟑) = 𝟏𝟎 −𝟐+𝟑 = 𝟏𝟎 𝟏
Step Five: Write your solution. Make sure it is properly put in scientific notation.
2 x 𝟏𝟎 𝟏

3. Adding in scientific notation
PPS p. 370
Step One: Make sure both numbers are in scientific notation
Step Two: Convert the smaller number in scientific notation to match the greater number’s exponent
1.1 x = x 10 4
Step Three: Add the front numbers =
Step Four: Keep the base 10 and write your solution. Make sure it is in proper scientific notation
x 10 4

4. Subtracting in scientific notation
PPS p. 370
Step One: Make sure both numbers are in scientific notation
(6.21 x 10 −2 ) – ( 4.3 x 10 −4 )
Step Two: Convert the smaller number in scientific notation to match the greater number’s exponent
4.3 x 10 −4 = .043 x 10 −2
Step Three: Subtract the front numbers
6.21 – 0.43 = 6.167
Step Four: Keep the base 10 and write your solution. Make sure it is in proper scientific notation
6.167 x 10 −2