What is exponential notation?

Exponential notation simplifies calculation, especially calculation with very small or large numbers, by using positive and negative numbers to write multiples and submultiples of 10. All numbers can be written as a multiple of 10.

Any number that has been written as an exponential notation can be converted back to a regular notation by shifting the decimal point of the numeric part a number of places equal to the value of the exponent. The number of zeros in a decimal, including the zeros to the left of the decimal point, determines the exponent. The number one written as an exponential notation is 100. A number that is raised to the zeroth power always equals one.