Final answer:
Scientific notation is a convenient and simplified way to express very large or very small numbers. It makes computation with large numbers easier by allowing for simpler multiplication, division, and simplification. The coefficients and exponents in scientific notation can be multiplied, divided, or added to perform calculations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scientific notation is a way to express very large or very small numbers in a convenient and simplified form. It consists of a coefficient (a number between 1 and 10) multiplied by a power of ten.
Scientific notation is helpful when computing with large numbers because it allows for easier multiplication, division, and simplification of calculations. For example, to multiply two numbers in scientific notation, you multiply the coefficients and add the exponents.