How do you evaluate #(7.5times10^6)(2.6times10^-2)#?

1 Answer
May 31, 2017

The answer is #19.5xx10^4#, or #1.95xx10^5#.

Explanation:

Evaluate:

#(7.5xx10^6)(2.6xx10^(-2))#

If you are not using a calculator, multiply the two coefficients, #7.5# and #2.6#.

#7.5xx2.6=19.5#

Next multiply the powers of the base #10#.

#10^6xx10^(-2)#

Use the product rule of exponents: #a^ma^n=a^(m+n)#

#10^(6+(-2))=10^4#

Put everything back together.

#19.5xx10^4#

If you want the answer in scientific notation, move the decimal one place to the left and increase the exponent to by #1#.

#1.95xx10^5#