Question

Select numbers that show how the numbers given a specific mutation can be added: 2.00 x 10^(-26) and -3.34 x 10^(-27)

A) 2.00 x 10^(-26) - 3.34 x 10^(-27)
B) 2.00 x 10^(-26) + (-3.34 x 10^(-27))
C) 2.00 x 10^(-26) + 3.34 x 10^(-27)
D) -2.00 x 10^(-26) - 3.34 x 10^(-27)

Answer 1

The correct selection for adding the given numbers in scientific notation is option B) 2.00 x 10^(-26) + (-3.34 x 10^(-27)), acknowledging the negative sign of the second number and retaining their individual exponents. The correct answer is option B.

Step-by-step explanation:

When adding numbers in scientific notation with different exponents, such as 2.00 x 10^(-26) and -3.34 x 10^(-27), you should express both numbers with the same exponent if possible. However, in this case, because the exponents are only one unit apart and because the base (10) raised to these exponents represents vastly different values, we keep the numbers in their original form with their individual exponents and combine them directly. The correct operation is to add the numbers, taking into account the sign of the second number. Thus, the correct selection is:

B) 2.00 x 10^(-26) + (-3.34 x 10^(-27))

This option shows the mutation of adding a negative number to a positive number and keeps the distinct exponents of the original numbers.

To get the sum of a negative and a positive number, use the sign of the larger number and subtract.