Scientific Notation

Addition and Subtraction

What happens when exponential numbers are added or subtracted ?

Addition and Subtraction:

All numbers must be converted to the same power of 10, and the digit terms are added or subtracted.
Example: (4.215 x 10^-2) + (3.2 x 10^-4) = (4.215 x 10^-2) + (0.032 x 10^-2) = 4.247 x 10^-2
Example: (8.97 x 10⁴) - (2.62 x 10³) = (8.97 x 10⁴) - (0.262 x 10⁴) = 8.71 x 10⁴
**Keep in mind that the conversions to the same power of ten will effect your significant figures**