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v0.1.512
NotesMath AI SLTopic 1.1Back to ordinary form
Back to Math AI SL Topics
1.1.21 min read

Back to ordinary form

IB Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation • Unit 1

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Contents

  • Back to ordinary form
  • Back to ordinary form with large numbers

Back to ordinary form

Back to ordinary form:
  • 7.2 × 10⁻³ becomes 0.0072.
  • 4.1 × 10⁻⁵ becomes 0.000041.
  • With a negative exponent, move the decimal left when returning to ordinary form.

Quick check

  • Keep all the zeros you need so the decimal lands in the correct place.
  • Your ordinary-form answer must still represent the same value as the original standard form.

Back to ordinary form with large numbers

A positive exponent makes the ordinary number bigger. Move the decimal to the right.

Easy examples:
  • 6.3 × 10⁴ becomes 63 000.
  • 2.08 × 10⁶ becomes 2 080 000.
  • 9.5 × 10³ becomes 9 500.

Quick check

  • Positive exponent means move the decimal right.
  • Add zeros if you need more places.
  • Your ordinary number should now be bigger than 1.

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Write 6.4 × 10⁻³ as an ordinary number. [1 mark]

Related Math AI SL Topics

Continue learning with these related topics from the same unit:

1.1.1Converting to standard form
1.1.3Calculations with standard form
1.1.4Validity checks and GDC output
1.2.1Arithmetic sequences
View all Math AI SL topics

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1.1.1Converting to standard form
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Calculations with standard form1.1.3

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