Indices and scientific notation.
Understand exponent laws and use scientific notation to calculate, compare and interpret quantities across different scales.
Work through the topic
Learn the method, follow the examples, then try the worksheet.
- 01
Integer index laws
Explain and combine whole-number powers by tracking repeated factors, then check which law applies.
- 02
Zero/negative powers and reciprocals
Use zero and negative exponents as a consistent extension of the quotient law.
- 03
Index laws with variables
Apply exponent laws to letters while keeping coefficients, bases and restrictions clear.
- 04
Scientific notation and decimal conversion
Convert ordinary decimals to and from scientific notation, keeping one non-zero digit before the decimal point.
- 05
Comparing/calculating very large and small quantities
Compare scientific quantities and calculate with them, normalising the final coefficient.
- 06
Measurement and time-scale applications
Use scientific notation with compatible measurement units and sensible interpretations of time and scale.
Topic review
Revisit the key ideas, then choose a practice paper.