Scientific Notation Converter

Q: How do I write a number in scientific notation?

Move the decimal point so exactly one non-zero digit is left of it, then count the places moved as the exponent. 0.0045 → 4.5 × 10⁻³ (moved right 3 places, so negative). 6,700,000 → 6.7 × 10⁶ (moved left 6 places, so positive).

Q: What does a negative exponent mean?

A negative exponent means the number is smaller than 1. 10⁻³ = 1/1,000 = 0.001. The decimal point moves left that many places.

Q: Why is scientific notation used in science?

It makes very large and very small numbers compact, shows significant figures clearly, and makes multiplication and division of magnitudes trivial by adding or subtracting exponents.

Q: Is 10³ the same as kilo-?

Yes. The metric prefix kilo- (k) means ×10³: 1 km = 10³ m = 1,000 m. Each common prefix corresponds to a power of ten — see the metric prefixes sheet.

Convert between decimal form and scientific notation (standard form, a × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ a < 10). Works for both very large and very small numbers — a common homework and lab-science task.

1. Decimal → Scientific

Decimal number

Scientific notation

4.5 × 10^-3

Rule: move the decimal point so exactly one non-zero digit is left of it. The exponent is the number of places moved (negative for numbers below 1).

2. Scientific → Decimal

Mantissa (a)

Exponent (n)

Decimal form

0.0045

Positive exponent shifts the decimal right; negative shifts left. e.g. 4.5 × 10⁻³ = 0.0045.

Common metric powers of ten

Scientific notation connects directly to metric prefixes. Moving the exponent by 3 corresponds to the common prefixes:

Power	Prefix	Decimal	Example
10⁶	Mega (M)	1,000,000	1 megawatt = 1,000,000 W
10³	Kilo (k)	1,000	1 kilometer = 1,000 m
10⁻²	Centi (c)	0.01	1 centimeter = 0.01 m
10⁻³	Milli (m)	0.001	1 millimeter = 0.001 m
10⁻⁶	Micro (µ)	0.000001	1 micrometer = 0.000001 m
10⁻⁹	Nano (n)	0.000000001	1 nanometer = 0.000000001 m

Metric prefixes sheet →Browse all converters →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I write a number in scientific notation?

Move the decimal point so exactly one non-zero digit is left of it, then count the places moved as the exponent. 0.0045 → 4.5 × 10⁻³ (moved right 3 places, so negative). 6,700,000 → 6.7 × 10⁶ (moved left 6 places, so positive).

What does a negative exponent mean?

A negative exponent means the number is smaller than 1. 10⁻³ = 1/1,000 = 0.001. The decimal point moves left that many places.

Why is scientific notation used in science?

It makes very large and very small numbers compact, shows significant figures clearly, and makes multiplication/division of magnitudes trivial (add/subtract exponents).

Is 10³ the same as kilo-?

Yes. The metric prefix kilo- (k) means ×10³: 1 km = 10³ m = 1,000 m. Each common prefix corresponds to a power of ten — see the metric prefixes sheet.

Study aid disclaimer: this tool helps you check scientific-notation answers. It is not a substitute for showing your work — always write the steps your teacher expects.