Chapter 4, Problem 26CT

To determine

To write the number in scientific notation $5100000000$

Answer to Problem 26CT

  $5.1\times {10}^9$

Explanation of Solution

Given information:

Number $5100000000$ to be changed to scientific notation

Calculation:

To convert to scientific notation, move the decimal point to the left (or right side). In the given number, the decimal is to be moved to the left side. Whenever the decimal is required to be moved to the left side, the exponent stays positive.

So, here in the given number 5100000000 - start moving the decimal point to the left. As there are 8 zero’s, may first write the number as-

  $=51\times {10}^8$

The correct scientific notation has a number with decimal point just next to the first digit, so need to move the decimal one more place to the left, hence adding 1 more to the power of 10.

  $5.1\times {10}^9$

Conclusion-

  $5.1\times {10}^9$