Scientific Notation Calculator
Convert between decimal numbers and scientific notation. Perform arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) directly in scientific notation.
A scientific notation calculator converts between decimal numbers and scientific notation, and performs arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) directly in scientific notation.
Examples
Small Number
Large Number
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between scientific and engineering notation?
Quick Tips
- •Double-check your inputs — a misplaced decimal point changes the exponent dramatically.
- •Use engineering notation (exponents in multiples of 3) for easier unit prefix mapping (kilo, mega, giga).
- •When multiplying in scientific notation, add the exponents and multiply the coefficients separately.
A scientific notation calculator converts between decimal numbers and scientific notation, and performs arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) directly in scientific notation.
How to Use This Calculator
Choose a mode: convert a decimal number to scientific notation, convert from scientific notation back to decimal, or perform arithmetic (add, subtract, multiply, divide) in scientific notation. Enter your number(s) as prompted. Click Calculate to see the result in both scientific and engineering notation.
Understanding the Formula
a × 10^b (where 1 ≤ |a| < 10).
Examples
Small Number
0.0000000056 is 5.6 × 10^-9.
Large Number
1,500,000,000 is 1.5 × 10^9.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between scientific and engineering notation?
In scientific notation, the coefficient is between 1 and 10. In engineering notation, the exponent is always a multiple of 3.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes exact input values — rounding errors in the inputs will propagate to the result.
- Limited to real numbers; complex number operations are not supported.
- Results may show floating-point approximations for very large or very small numbers.