Scientific notation writes values as a×10ⁿ with |a| usually between 1 and 10—common in science for huge or tiny magnitudes. Convert either way and read an order-of-magnitude marker on the page.
How to use
- Number → scientific: type 602000000000000000000000 or 0.000045.
- Scientific → number: 1.2e6, 3.5×10^−4, 6.02e23, etc.
- Read coefficient, exponent, and full string; check the scale tick.
Reading exponents
Positive n shifts the decimal right (larger); negative n shifts left (smaller). 3.2×10⁴=32000; 4.5×10⁻³=0.0045.
Examples
Speed of light ~3×10⁸ m/s; Earth mass ~6×10²⁴ kg (rounded display).
For fraction forms after decimals, try decimal ↔ fraction.
Notes
Coefficients are rounded for display; keep source significant figures for precision work.
Frequently asked questions
What are coefficient a and exponent n?
a×10ⁿ: a is the mantissa (|a| usually 1–10, may be negative); n is the integer exponent—how far the decimal shifts.
Positive vs negative exponents?
Positive n → larger value, decimal moves right. Negative n → smaller, moves left. The scale tick shows magnitude.
Can I type 1.2e6 or 3.5×10^−4?
In expand mode, yes—plus plain decimals. ×, *, x work; exponents like ^−4 are accepted.
Why rounded coefficients?
Very long values round for display. Keep your lab significant figures; this page is for magnitude checks and format swaps.
Related tools?
Scientific form avoids counting zeros on huge integers. For fractions of decimals, try decimal ↔ fraction.
What about zero?
Zero displays as 0×10⁰; the page targets large/small non-zero magnitudes.
Can I save my inputs?
Yes. Copy link below the form keeps your current inputs so you can share the scenario or save it for later.