Convert 8.59 To Standard Form In 3 Easy Steps

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Converting a number to standard form is a crucial skill in mathematics, particularly in science and engineering. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process to convert 8.59 to standard form.

What is Standard Form?

Standard form, also known as scientific notation, is a way of expressing numbers in a compact and readable format. It consists of a number between 1 and 10, multiplied by a power of 10. This notation is commonly used in scientific and engineering applications, as it allows for easy comparison and calculation of large and small numbers.

Step 1: Identify the Significant Figures

The first step in converting 8.59 to standard form is to identify the significant figures. Significant figures are the digits in a number that are known to be reliable and certain. In this case, we have three significant figures: 8, 5, and 9.

Significant Figures in 8.59

• 8: significant figure
• 5: significant figure
• 9: significant figure

Step 2: Move the Decimal Point

To convert 8.59 to standard form, we need to move the decimal point to the left until we have a number between 1 and 10. In this case, we need to move the decimal point one place to the left.

Result After Moving Decimal Point

• 0.859

Step 3: Multiply by a Power of 10

Now that we have a number between 1 and 10, we need to multiply it by a power of 10 to get the original value. Since we moved the decimal point one place to the left, we need to multiply by 10^1.

Result in Standard Form

• 0.859 × 10^1 = 8.59

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When converting numbers to standard form, it's essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• Make sure to identify the correct number of significant figures.
• Move the decimal point the correct number of places to the left.
• Use the correct power of 10 to multiply the number.

Benefits of Standard Form

Standard form has several benefits, including:

• Easy comparison of large and small numbers
• Simplified calculations and operations
• Improved readability and clarity

Real-World Applications

Standard form is used in a variety of real-world applications, including:

• Scientific research and calculations
• Engineering and architecture
• Computer programming and coding

Conclusion: Mastering Standard Form

Converting numbers to standard form is a valuable skill that can simplify calculations and improve readability. By following the three easy steps outlined in this article, you can master the art of converting numbers to standard form.

We hope this article has been helpful in your journey to mastering standard form. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.