Answer in scientific notation = 1.445 x 10^3
Step by step
When we multiply scientific notation we multiply the number and add the exponents in the power of 10
1.7 x 8.5 = 14.45
10^4 + 10^-2 = 10^2
14.45 x 10^2
Now simplify so there is 1 digit to the left of the decimal so it is in scientific notation
We move the decimal to the left one number and add one to our exponent.
1.445 x 10^3
We added a tenth to our exponent that we lost in our original number is how I remember this.
If you go the opposite direction you would lose a tenth for every digit you move your decimal.