Question

Convert to scientific notation.
0.000000032

Answer 1

3.2 × 10⁻⁸

Explanation:

Scientific notation is written in the form
`a * 10^n`, where
`1 \leq a < 10` and
`n` is any positive or negative whole number.

To convert a number into scientific notation, move the decimal point to the left or right until there is one non-zero digit to the left of the decimal point.

The number of times you have moved the decimal point is the power of 10 (the value of n).

• If the decimal point has moved to the left, n is positive.
• If the decimal point has moved to the right, n is negative.

Therefore, to convert 0.000000032 to scientific notation, move the decimal point 8 places to the right so that
`a` is 3.2.

As the decimal point has been moved 8 places the right, the exponent of 10 is -8.

Therefore, 0.000000032 = 3.2 × 10⁻⁸.