Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics (5733)Number and QuantityEasy

A financial analyst is evaluating an investment. The value of the investment is 2.5 × 10³ dollars. What is this value in standard notation?

  1. A$250.00
  2. B$25.00
  3. C$25,000.00
  4. D$2,500.00
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. $2,500.00

To convert scientific notation to standard notation, move the decimal point according to the exponent. A positive exponent means move right, and a negative exponent means move left.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. This would be 2.5 × 10².
  • B. This would be 2.5 × 10¹.
  • C. This would be 2.5 × 10⁴.

Scientific Notation to Standard

To convert a number from scientific notation (a × 10ⁿ) to standard notation, move the decimal point in the coefficient 'a' by 'n' places. Move right for a positive 'n' and left for a negative 'n'.

  • Positive exponent (n > 0) means a large number; move decimal right.
  • Negative exponent (n < 0) means a small number; move decimal left.
  • The number of places to move the decimal is equal to the absolute value of the exponent.

Memory trick: Exponent's Sign Shows Decimal's Direction!

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