Question

Without performing the calculation, estimate which expression is larger. Explain how you know

(4 × 10^10)(2 × 10 ^5 )

Answer 1

4 × 10¹⁰ > 2 × 10⁵

Explanation:

Given that,

Two numbers in scientific notation.

First number: 4 × 10¹⁰

Second number: 2 × 10⁵

To compare scientific notation number.

First check the exponent of 10

If exponent is larger then number becomes larger.

First number exponent is 10 and second number exponent if 5

10 > 5

Therefore,

4 × 10¹⁰ > 2 × 10⁵