By Michael Judge Updated Aug 30, 2022

In mathematics, equations may feature fractions or exponential (scientific) notation—distinct concepts serving different purposes. A fraction expresses a value as a ratio, e.g., 3/4. Exponential notation rewrites a number as a coefficient multiplied by a power of ten, simplifying representation: 10,000,000 becomes 1 × 10⁷. To transform a fraction into exponential form, first compute its decimal equivalent.

Step 1

Divide the numerator by the denominator to obtain a decimal. For example, 2/50 ÷ 2 ÷ 50 = 0.04.

Step 2

Shift the decimal so the coefficient lies between 1 and 10. Moving the point two places to the right transforms 0.04 into 4.

Step 3

Multiply the adjusted coefficient by 10 raised to the power of the shift count. Because the decimal moved right, use a negative exponent: 4 × 10^-2, which equals the original 2/50.

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

Fractions that yield repeating decimals require an approximate decimal before conversion. For instance, 1/3 ≈ 0.333, then written as 3.33 × 10^-1.