Using Scientific Notation When Multiplying and Dividing Monomials

In order to understand this lesson, you will need to have a basic understanding of scientific notation.

Click here to review the lessons on multiplying and dividing monomials, which may also assist you in completing this lesson.

Throughout your studies, you may be asked to multiply or divide numerals that are written in scientific notation. You will follow the same process that you learned when multiplying and dividing monomials; however, the only difference is that you will need to make sure that your final answer is written in scientific notation.

Let's look at a few examples.

Multiplying Monomials Written in Scientific Notation

Example 1

Example 2

Now let's look at a couple of examples that require division!

Dividing Monomials Written in Scientific Notation

Example 3

Example 4

It can be tricky trying to figure out the exponent if the final answer is not in scientific notation format. If you have trouble thinking it through, write the intial answer in expanded form and then translate it back into scientific notation. Take a look at this final example.

Example 5

Ok... are you ready to complete a few practice problems? Here they are....

Practice Problems

Answer Key

Problem 1

Problem 2

Problem 3

Great Job! You've completed the unit on Exponents and Monomials!