The scientific notation converter converts numbers between standard form, scientific notation (a × 10ⁿ), E-notation, and engineering notation. Enter any number in any format to convert instantly.
Scientific Notation Converter
How to Use the Scientific Notation Converter
Scientific notation expresses numbers as a × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ |a| < 10. It makes very large and very small numbers manageable in calculations and written form.
Converting to Scientific Notation
Move the decimal point until one non-zero digit is left of the decimal. Count the moves: right = negative exponent, left = positive exponent. 6,371,000 → 6.371 × 10⁶ (moved decimal 6 places left). 0.00000000160 → 1.60 × 10⁻⁹ (moved 9 places right).
E-Notation
E-notation uses "E" instead of "× 10^": 6.371E6 = 6.371 × 10⁶. Programming languages and calculators use this format. Both mean exactly the same thing. You can enter E-notation directly into this calculator.
Engineering Notation
Engineering notation restricts exponents to multiples of 3 (matching SI prefixes). 6,371,000 m → 6.371 × 10⁶ m = 6.371 Mm (megameters). 0.0015 A → 1.5 × 10⁻³ A = 1.5 mA (milliamps). Useful for electronics: kΩ, mA, μF, nH.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is scientific notation?
Scientific notation expresses numbers as a × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ |a| < 10 and n is an integer. For example, 6,371,000 m (Earth's radius) = 6.371 × 10⁶ m. Very small numbers like 0.000000001 m = 1 × 10⁻⁹ m = 1 nm. This format makes very large or small numbers manageable.
What is E-notation?
E-notation is scientific notation using 'E' or 'e' instead of '× 10^'. 6.371E6 = 6.371 × 10⁶. Calculators and programming languages use this format. 1.602E-19 = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ (elementary charge in Coulombs). Both formats mean the same thing.
Is this calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. All calculations run in your browser.
Is my data private?
Yes. All calculations run locally. Nothing is transmitted.
What is engineering notation?
Engineering notation restricts the exponent to multiples of 3, so the coefficient is between 1 and 999. Example: 6,371,000 m = 6.371 × 10⁶ (scientific) = 6371 × 10³ = 6.371 × 10⁶ (same for this case). Useful for matching SI prefixes: 10³=kilo, 10⁶=mega, 10⁹=giga, 10⁻³=milli, 10⁻⁶=micro.