Scientific Notation Converter
Convert between standard numbers and scientific notation in both directions. Also displays engineering notation (exponent in multiples of 3) for the same value.
Enter any positive or negative real number.
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Frequently asked questions
What is scientific notation?
Scientific notation expresses a number as a × 10^n, where 1 ≤ |a| < 10 and n is an integer. For example, the speed of light (299,792,458 m/s) becomes 2.998 × 10^8 — much easier to write and compare than the full digit string. It's standard in physics, chemistry, astronomy, and engineering because most measurements span many orders of magnitude.
What is engineering notation?
Engineering notation is a variant of scientific notation where the exponent is restricted to multiples of 3 (which line up with SI prefixes: kilo=3, mega=6, giga=9, micro=-6, nano=-9, pico=-12). A capacitor value of 4.7 × 10^-9 F (scientific) is written 4.7 × 10^-9 F (engineering) — which translates directly to '4.7 nF' on a parts list. Calculators and oscilloscopes often default to engineering mode for this reason.
How do I enter scientific notation on a calculator?
Most calculators use 'E' or 'EE' notation for input. To enter 2.998 × 10^8, type 2.998 [EE] 8 — not 2.998 × 10 [^] 8 (which works but is slower). The 'E' or 'EE' key directly inserts the × 10^n structure. Scientific calculators display the result as '2.998E8' or '2.998 × 10^8' depending on settings.