Scientific Notation Calculator
Scientific notation calculator: convert any number to scientific, E and engineering notation with its exponent.
Editorial review: Farrow (pseudonym; identity and professional credentials are not disclosed). This page is for educational purposes, not professional advice.
Updated
Your inputs
Results update as you type. Nothing you enter leaves your device.
Results
- E notation
- 1.23456E5
- Engineering notation
- 123.456 x 10^3
- Exponent
- 5
Example with the starting values
These results use the calculator's initial inputs. Change the values above to calculate your own estimate.
Inputs
- Number
- 123456
Results
- Scientific notation
- 1.23456 x 10^5
- E notation
- 1.23456E5
- Engineering notation
- 123.456 x 10^3
- Exponent
- 5
How does the Scientific Notation Calculator work?
Scientific notation writes a number as a coefficient from 1 up to 10 times a power of 10. Move the decimal point until one non-zero digit is to its left; the moves are the exponent.
Engineering notation uses exponents that are multiples of three, to match prefixes such as kilo and milli.
Frequently asked questions
How do you write 5,000 in scientific notation?
5 x 10^3. The decimal moves three places left.
What is E notation?
A text form used by calculators and code: 1.5E3 means 1.5 x 10^3.
How are small numbers written?
With a negative exponent: 0.00042 is 4.2 x 10^-4.
How do I multiply numbers in scientific notation?
Multiply the coefficients and add the exponents. (2 x 10^3) x (3 x 10^4) = 6 x 10^7.