What you’ll learn
Compare quantities in scientific notation.
Key idea
A higher exponent dominates normalized positive coefficients; equal exponents permit direct coefficient comparison.
Check exponents before coefficient comparison; exact ordinary values, not display rounding, determine order.
Worked example
Classify examples and non-examples for the concept 'Compare quantities in scientific notation'.
Compare A=3.3×10^2 and B=1.1×10^3. Select the greater value with exact magnitude evidence.
- Although 3.3>1.1, unlike exponents give A=330, B=1100, hence A<B.
- For equal exponent 2, A=330, B=110, so A>B instead; compare coefficients only after aligning powers.
Answer: B is greater — 1100>330; normalized coefficients do not override different exponents.
Quick Check
Classify examples and non-examples for the concept 'Compare quantities in scientific notation'.
Compare A=4.4×10^0 and B=2.4×10^1. Select the greater value with exact magnitude evidence.