Calculations In Chemistry (ChemReview Modules)

Free E-Book Chapters -- How To Use

This ebook contains Modules 1 and 2 of the 39 modules of the Calculations in Chemistry tutorials
for General and AP Chemistry. To learn from these tutorials, it is important that you read each
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# # # # #
 Table of Contents
* * * * *
Volume 1
How to Use These Lessons ............................................................................................... 1
Module 1 – Scientific Notation ........................................................................................ 2
Lesson 1A: Moving the Decimal .............................................................................................. 3
Lesson 1B: Calculations Using Exponential Notation ......................................................... 8
Lesson 1C: Estimating Calculated Answers ........................................................................ 14
Module 2 – The Metric System ...................................................................................... 20
Lesson 2A: Metric Fundamentals .......................................................................................... 20
Lesson 2B: Metric Prefix Formats ......................................................................................... 25
Lesson 2C: Cognitive Science -- and Flashcards ................................................................. 30
Lesson 2D: Calculations With Units...................................................................................... 36
Module 3 – Significant Figures...................................................................................... 40
Lesson 3A: Rules for Significant Figures .............................................................................. 40
Lesson 3B: Sig Figs -- Special Cases ...................................................................................... 45
Lesson 3C: Sig Fig Summary and Practice ........................................................................... 48
Lesson 3D: Special Project --The Atoms (Part 1) ................................................................. 51
Module 4 – Conversion Factors ..................................................................................... 52
Lesson 4A: Conversion Factor Basics.................................................................................... 52
Lesson 4B: Conversions.......................................................................................................... 55
Lesson 4C: Bridge Conversions ............................................................................................. 59
Lesson 4D: Ratio Unit Conversions....................................................................................... 63
Lesson 4E: The Atoms –Part 2 ............................................................................................... 67
Lesson 4F: Review Quiz For Modules 1-4 ............................................................................. 68
Module 5 – Word Problems ............................................................................................ 70
Lesson 5A: Answer Units -- Single Or Ratio? ...................................................................... 70
Lesson 5B: Mining The DATA .............................................................................................. 72
Lesson 5C: Solving For Single Units ..................................................................................... 75
Lesson 5D: Finding the Given ................................................................................................. 79
Lesson 5E: Some Chemistry Practice .................................................................................... 82
Lesson 5F: Area and Volume Conversions ......................................................................... 84
Lesson 5G: Densities of Solids: Solving Equations ............................................................ 90
Module 6 – Atoms, Ions, and Periodicity .................................................................... 97
Lesson 6A: Atoms .................................................................................................................... 97
Lesson 6B: The Nucleus, Isotopes, and Atomic Mass ...................................................... 101
Lesson 6C: Atoms, Compounds, and Formulas................................................................ 109
Lesson 6D: The Periodic Table ............................................................................................. 114
Lesson 6E: A Flashcard Review System............................................................................. 117
Lesson 6F: The Atoms –Part 3 ............................................................................................. 119

Page iii
Module 7 – Writing Names and Formulas ................................................................. 120
Lesson 7A: Naming Elements and Covalent Compounds ...............................................120
Lesson 7B: Naming Ions .......................................................................................................126
Lesson 7C: Names and Formulas for Ionic Compounds ..................................................135
Lesson 7D: Naming Acids ..................................................................................................... 147
Lesson 7E: Review Quiz For Modules 5-7 ............................................................................150
Module 8 – Grams and Counting Molecules ............................................................ 154
Lesson 8A: Moles and Molar Mass ......................................................................................154
Lesson 8B: Converting Between Grams and Moles ..........................................................158
Lesson 8C: Converting Particles, Moles, and Grams ........................................................161
Lesson 8D: Solving Word Problems for Ratios ..................................................................165
Lesson 8E: Conversions and Careers ..................................................................................173
Module 9 – Mole Applications..................................................................................... 178
Lesson 9A: Fractions and Percentages.................................................................................178
Lesson 9B: Empirical Formulas............................................................................................184
Lesson 9C: Empirical Formulas from Mass or % Mass .....................................................186
Lesson 9D: Mass Fraction, Mass Percent, Percent Composition......................................190
Module 10 – Balanced Equations and Stoichiometry .............................................. 200
Lesson 10A: Chemical Reactions and Equations .................................................................200
Lesson 10B: Balancing Equations ..........................................................................................203
Lesson 10C: Using Coefficients in Conversions...................................................................207
Lesson 10D: Conversion Stoichiometry ................................................................................212
Lesson 10E: Percent Yield .......................................................................................................219
Lesson 10F: Finding the Limiting Reactant ..........................................................................224
Lesson 10G: Final Mixture Amounts and RICE Tables.......................................................231
Lesson 10H: Review Quiz For Modules 8-10 ..........................................................................245
Module 11 – Molarity and Dimensions...................................................................... 249
Lesson 11A: Molarity ...............................................................................................................249
Lesson 11B: Units and Dimensions ......................................................................................256
Lesson 11C: Ratios versus Two Related Amounts .............................................................263
Lesson 11D: Solving Problems With Parts ...........................................................................268
Module 12 – Molarity Applications ............................................................................ 277
Lesson 12A: Dilution ...............................................................................................................277
Lesson 12B: Ion Concentrations .............................................................................................286
Lesson 12C: Solution Stoichiometry ......................................................................................293
Lesson 12D: Stoichiometry Finding Ratio Units ..................................................................296
Lesson 12E: Solution Reactions and Limiting Reactants ....................................................303
Lesson 12F: Review Quiz For Modules 11-12 ........................................................................307
Module 13 – Ionic Equations and Precipitates ......................................................... 313
Lesson 13A: Predicting Solubility for Ionic Compounds ...................................................313
Lesson 13B: Total and Net Ionic Equations ..........................................................................317
Lesson 13C: Precipitation ........................................................................................................321
Lesson 13D: Precipitate and Gravimetric Calculations .......................................................333
Module 14 – Acid-Base Neutralization....................................................................... 340
Lesson 14A: Ions in Acid-Base Neutralization .....................................................................340
Lesson 14B: Balancing Hydroxide Neutralization ..............................................................344
Lesson 14C: Neutralization and Titration Calculations ......................................................351

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 Lesson 14D: Solving Neutralization for Ratio Units ........................................................... 355
Lesson 14E: Neutralization Calculations in Parts ............................................................... 360
Lesson 14F: Carbonate Neutralization ................................................................................. 368
Module 15 – Redox Reactions ...................................................................................... 376
Lesson 15A: Oxidation Numbers .......................................................................................... 376
Lesson 15B: Balancing Charge............................................................................................... 381
Lesson 15C: Oxidizing and Reducing Agents .................................................................... 384
Lesson 15D: Balancing Redox Using Oxidation Numbers ................................................ 387
Lesson 15E: Redox Stoichiometry ........................................................................................ 392
Module 16 – Half-Reaction Balancing........................................................................ 396
Lesson 16A: Constructing Half-Reactions – The CA-WHe! Method................................ 396
Lesson 16B: Balancing By Adding Half-Reactions ............................................................. 402
Lesson 16C: Separating Redox Into Half-Reactions ........................................................... 405
Lesson 16D: Balancing Redox With Spectators Present ..................................................... 409
Lesson 16E: Review Quiz For Modules 13-16 ....................................................................... 415

Volume 2
Module 17 – Ideal Gases ............................................................................................... 419
Lesson 17A: Gas Fundamentals ............................................................................................. 419
Lesson 17B: Gases at STP ....................................................................................................... 423
Lesson 17C: Complex Unit Cancellation .............................................................................. 429
Lesson 17D: The Ideal Gas Law and Solving Equations .................................................... 434
Lesson 17E: Choosing Consistent Units ............................................................................... 438
Lesson 17F: Density, Molar Mass, and Choosing Equations ............................................ 442
Lesson 17G: Using the Combined Equation ........................................................................ 449
Lesson 17H: Gas Law Summary and Practice ..................................................................... 455
Module 18 – Gas Labs, Gas Reactions ........................................................................ 460
Lesson 18A: Charles’ Law; Graphing Direct Proportions .................................................. 460
Lesson 18B: Boyle’s Law; Graphs of Inverse Proportions ................................................. 467
Lesson 18C: Avogadro’s Hypothesis; Gas Stoichiometry.................................................. 470
Lesson 18D: Dalton’s Law of Partial Pressures ................................................................... 479
Module 19 – Kinetic Molecular Theory ..................................................................... 487
Lesson 19A: Squares and Square Roots ................................................................................ 487
Lesson 19B: Kinetic Molecular Theory ................................................................................. 495
Lesson 19C: Converting to SI Base Units ............................................................................. 498
Lesson 19D: KMT Calculations .............................................................................................. 501
Lesson 19E: Graham’s Law .................................................................................................... 513
Module 20 – Graphing .................................................................................................. 517
Lesson 20A: Graphing Fundamentals................................................................................... 517
Lesson 20B: The Specific Equation for a Line...................................................................... 526
Lesson 20C: Graphing Experimental Data ........................................................................... 536
Lesson 20D: Deriving Equations From Linear Data ........................................................... 543
Lesson 20E: Linear Equations Not Directly Proportional ................................................. 554
Lesson 20F: Graphing Inverse Proportions ......................................................................... 561

Page v
Module 21 – Phases Changes and Energy .................................................................. 571
Lesson 21A: Phases and Phase Changes ...............................................................................571
Lesson 21B: Specific Heat Capacity and Equations ............................................................583
Lesson 21C: Water, Energy, and Consistent Units ..............................................................592
Lesson 21D: Calculating Joules Using Unit Cancellation ...................................................597
Lesson 21E: Calorimetry .........................................................................................................601
Module 22 – Heats Of Reaction (ΔH) ......................................................................... 611
Lesson 22A: Energy, Heat, and Work ...................................................................................611
Lesson 22B: Exo- And Endothermic Reactions ...................................................................619
Lesson 22C: Adding ΔH Equations (Hess’s Law) ...............................................................624
Lesson 22D: Heats of Formation and Element Formulas ...................................................630
Lesson 22E: Using Summation to Find ΔH ..........................................................................638
Module 23 – Light and Spectra ................................................................................... 643
Lesson 23A: Waves ..................................................................................................................643
Lesson 23B: Waves and Consistent Units .............................................................................646
Lesson 23C: Planck's Law ......................................................................................................653
Lesson 23D: DeBroglie’s Wavelength ...................................................................................657
Lesson 23E: The Hydrogen Atom Spectrum ........................................................................662
Lesson 23F: The Wave Equation Model ..............................................................................668
Lesson 23G: Quantum Numbers ...........................................................................................670
Module 24 – Electron Configuration........................................................................... 674
Lesson 24A: The Multi-Electron Atom ..................................................................................674
Lesson 24B: Shorthand Electron Configurations .................................................................678
Lesson 24C: Abbreviated Electron Configurations .............................................................681
Lesson 24D: The Periodic Table and Electron Configuration ...........................................685
Lesson 24E: Electron Configurations: Exceptions and Ions .............................................690
Module 25 – Bonding .................................................................................................... 695
Lesson 25A: Covalent Bonds ..................................................................................................695
Lesson 25B: Molecular Shapes and Bond Angles ................................................................700
Lesson 25C: Electronegativity ................................................................................................708
Lesson 25D: Molecular Polarity.............................................................................................. 711
Lesson 25E: Solubility .............................................................................................................718
Lesson 25F: Double and Triple Bonds ..................................................................................722
Lesson 25G: Ion Dot Diagrams ...............................................................................................727
Lesson 25H: Orbital Models for Bonding ..............................................................................729
Module 26 – Mixtures and Colligative Properties ................................................... 734
Lesson 26A: Measures of Solution Composition .................................................................734
Lesson 26B: Concentration in Percent or PPM ....................................................................740
Lesson 26C: Colligative Properties and Gas Pressures .......................................................745
Lesson 26D: Colligative Properties of Solutions ..................................................................753
Module 27 – Kinetics: Rate Laws ................................................................................ 762
Lesson 27A: Kinetics Fundamentals .....................................................................................762
Lesson 27B: Rate Laws ............................................................................................................767
Lesson 27C: Integrated Rate Law --Zero Order ...................................................................776
Lesson 27D: Base 10 Logarithms ...........................................................................................784
Lesson 27E: Natural Log Calculations .................................................................................793
Lesson 27F: Integrated Rate Law -- First Order ..................................................................801

Page vi
 Lesson 27G: Reciprocal Math ................................................................................................. 811
Lesson 27H: Integrated Rate Law -- Second Order ............................................................. 816
Lesson 27I: Half-Life Calculations ....................................................................................... 823

Volume 3
Module 28 – Equilibrium.............................................................................................. 821
Lesson 28A: Le Châtelier’s Principle..................................................................................... 822
Lesson 28B: Powers and Roots of Exponential Notation................................................... 834
Lesson 28C: Equilibrium Constants ...................................................................................... 844
Lesson 28D: K Values ............................................................................................................. 851
Lesson 28E: Kp Calculations .................................................................................................. 854
Lesson 28F: K and Rice Moles Tables .................................................................................... 860
Lesson 28G: K Calculations From Initial Concentrations .................................................. 867
Lesson 28H: Q: The Reaction Quotient ................................................................................. 873
Lesson 28I: Calculations Using K and Q ............................................................................. 876
Lesson 28J: Solving Quadratic Equations ........................................................................... 883
Module 29 – Acid-Base Fundamentals ....................................................................... 894
Lesson 29A: Acid-Base Math Review ................................................................................... 894
Lesson 29B: Kw Calculations: H+ and OH─....................................................................... 897
Lesson 29C: Strong Acid Solutions ....................................................................................... 901
Lesson 29D: The [OH─] in Strong Acid Solutions .............................................................. 907
Lesson 29E: Strong Base Solutions........................................................................................ 909
Lesson 29F: The pH System ................................................................................................... 912
Module 30 – Weak Acids and Bases ........................................................................... 923
Lesson 30A: Ka Math and Approximation Equations ........................................................ 923
Lesson 30B: Weak Acids and Ka Expressions ..................................................................... 927
Lesson 30C: Ka Calculations .................................................................................................. 934
Lesson 30D: Percent Dissociation and Shortcuts................................................................. 943
Lesson 30E: Solving Ka Using the Quadratic Formula ...................................................... 947
Lesson 30F: Weak Bases and Kb Calculations ..................................................................... 950
Lesson 30G: Polyprotic Acids ................................................................................................ 960
Module 31 – Brønsted-Lowry Definitions................................................................. 966
Lesson 31A: Brønsted-Lowry Acids and Bases ................................................................... 966
Lesson 31B: Which Acids and Bases Will React? ................................................................ 970
Module 32 – pH of Salts ................................................................................................ 979
Lesson 32A: The Acid-Base Behavior of Salts ...................................................................... 979
Lesson 32B: Will A Salt Acid-Base React? .......................................................................... 986
Lesson 32C: Calculating the pH of a Salt Solution ............................................................ 990
Lesson 32D: Salts That Contain Amphoteric Ions ............................................................... 995
Module 33 – Buffers ..................................................................................................... 1000
Lesson 33A: Acid-Base Common Ions, Buffers ................................................................. 1000
Lesson 33B: Buffer Example ................................................................................................ 1003
Lesson 33C: Buffer Components ......................................................................................... 1009

Page vii
 Lesson 33D: Methodical Buffer Calculations......................................................................1013
Lesson 33E: Buffer Quick Steps ...........................................................................................1017
Lesson 33F: The Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation ..........................................................1024
Module 34 – pH During Titration ............................................................................. 1031
Lesson 34A: pH In Mixtures .................................................................................................1031
Lesson 34B: pH After Neutralization ..................................................................................1036
Lesson 34C: Distinguishing Types of Acid-Base Calculations ........................................1046
Lesson 34D: pH During Strong-Strong Titration ...............................................................1051
Lesson 34E: pH During Strong-Weak Titration.................................................................1060
Module 35 – Solubility Equilibrium......................................................................... 1075
Lesson 35A: Slightly Soluble Ionic Compounds ................................................................1075
Lesson 35B: Ksp Calculations ...............................................................................................1078
Lesson 35C: Solubility and Common Ions ..........................................................................1086
Lesson 35D: pH and Solubility .............................................................................................1093
Lesson 35E: Quantitative Precipitation Prediction............................................................1097
Module 36 – Thermodynamics ................................................................................... 1109
Lesson 36A: Review: Energy and Heats of Reaction ........................................................1109
Lesson 36B: Entropy and Spontaneity ...............................................................................1114
Lesson 36C: Free Energy .......................................................................................................1122
Lesson 36D: Standard State Values ......................................................................................1126
Lesson 36E: Adding ΔG° Equations ....................................................................................1133
Lesson 36F: Free Energy at Non-Standard Conditions ....................................................1136
Lesson 36G: Free Energy and K ............................................................................................1141
Module 37 – Electrochemistry .................................................................................... 1148
Lesson 37A: Redox Fundamentals .......................................................................................1148
Lesson 37B: Charges and Electrical Work ..........................................................................1155
Lesson 37C: Standard Reduction Potentials .......................................................................1159
Lesson 37D: Non-Standard Potentials: The Nernst Equation .........................................1162
Lesson 37E: Predicting Which Redox Reactions Go .........................................................1168
Lesson 37F: Calculating Cell Potential ...............................................................................1175
Module 38 – Electrochemical Cells ........................................................................... 1185
Lesson 38A: Cells and Batteries ............................................................................................1185
Lesson 38B: Anodes and Cathodes .....................................................................................1195
Lesson 38C: Depleted Batteries and Concentration Cells.................................................1204
Lesson 38D: Electrolysis ........................................................................................................1212
Lesson 38E: Amperes and Electrochemical Calculations .................................................1215
Module 39 – Nuclear Chemistry ................................................................................ 1224
Lesson 39A: The Nucleus - Review .....................................................................................1224
Lesson 39B: Radioactive Decay Reactions ..........................................................................1229
Lesson 39C: Fission and Fusion ...........................................................................................1234
Lesson 39D: Radioactive Half-Life Calculations ................................................................1237
•••••

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

How to Use These Lessons

1. Read the lesson and work the questions (Q). As you read, use this method.
 As you start a new page, if you see 5 red stars ( * * * * * ) on the page,
scroll so that the text below the stars is hidden.
 In your problem notebook or your printed pages, write your answer to the
question (Q) above the * * * * * . Then scroll so that the text below the
* * * * * shows and check your answer. If you need a hint, read a part of
the answer, then scroll up so that the * * * * * are at the bottom of the
screen (to hide the answer) and try the problem again.
2. First learn the rules, then do the Practice.
The goal in learning is to move rules and concepts into memory. To begin, when
working questions (Q) in a lesson, you may look back at the rules, but make an
effort to commit the rules to memory before starting the Practice problems.
Try every other problem of a Practice set on the first day and the remaining
problems in your next study session. This spacing will help you to remember new
material. On both days, try to work the Practice without looking back at the rules.
Answers to the Practice are at the end of each lesson. If you need a hint on a
problem, read a part of the answer and try again.
3. How many Practice problems should you do? It depends on your background.
These lessons are intended to
 refresh your memory on topics you once knew, and
 fill-in gaps for topics that are less familiar.
If you know a topic well, read the lesson for review, then do a few problems on
each Practice set. Be sure to do the last problem (usually the most challenging).
If a topic is unfamiliar, do more problems.
4. Work Practice problems at least 3 days a week. Chemistry is cumulative: What
you learn in early lessons you will need in memory later. To retain what you
learn, space your study of a topic over several days.
Science has found that your memory tends to retain what it uses repeatedly, but to
remember for only a few days what you do not practice over several days. If you
wait until a quiz deadline to study, what you learn may remain in memory for a
day or two, but on later tests and exams, it will tend to be forgotten.
Begin lessons on new topics early, preferably before the topic is covered in lecture.
5. Memorize what must be memorized. Use flashcards and other memory aids.
The key to success in chemistry is to commit to memory the facts and rules, practice
solving problems at least 3 days a week, and watch for the relationships that build
conceptual understanding.

Page 1
 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

If you have previously taken a course in chemistry, many topics in Modules 1 to 4 will
be review. Therefore: if you can pass the pre-test for a lesson, skip the lesson. If you
need a bit of review to refresh your memory, do the last few problems of each Practice
set. On topics that are less familiar, complete more Practice.

Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Additional Math Topics
Powers and roots of exponential notation are covered in Lesson 28B.
Complex units such as  atm ● L
are covered in Lesson 17C. (mole)( atm ● L )
mole ● K
Those lessons may be done at any time after Module 1.

Calculators and Exponential Notation

To multiply 492 x 7.36, the calculator is a useful tool. However, when using exponential
notation, you will make fewer mistakes if you do as much exponential math as you can
without a calculator. These lessons will review the rules for doing exponential math “in
your head.”
The majority of problems in Module 1 will not require a calculator. Problems that require a
calculator will be clearly identified.

Notation Terminology
When values are expressed as “regular numbers,” such as 123 or 0.00024, they are said to
be in fixed-decimal or fixed notation.
In science, we often deal with very large and very small numbers. These are more clearly
expressed in exponential notation: writing a number times 10 to an integer power.
Example:
Instead of writing “an atom of neon has an empirical radius of 0.0000000070 cm,” we
express the value as “7.0 x 10―9 cm.”
Values represented in exponential notation can be described as having three parts.
For example, in ─ 6.5 x 10―4,
 The ─ in front is the sign.
 the 6.5 is termed the significand, decimal, digit , mantissa, or coefficient.
 The 10―4 is the exponential term: the base is 10 and the exponent (or power) is ―4.
Because decimal, digit, mantissa, and coefficient have other meanings, in these lessons we
will refer to the parts of exponential notation as the sign, significand and exponential
term.

Page 2
 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

sign 
─ 6.5 x 10―4
 
significand exponential

You should also learn (and use) any alternate terminology preferred in your course.

* * * * *

Lesson 1A: Moving the Decimal

Pretest: Do not use a calculator. If you get a perfect score on this pretest, skip to Lesson 1B.
Otherwise, complete Lesson 1A. Answers are provided at the end of each lesson.
1. Write these in scientific notation.
a. 9,400 x 103 = ___________________ b. 0.042 x 106 = _________________

c. ─ 0.0067 x 10―2 = _________________ d. ─ 77 = _________________

2. Write these answers in fixed-decimal notation.

a. 14/10,000 = b. 0.194 x 1000 = c. 470=
* * * * *
Working With Powers of 10
Below are the numbers that correspond to powers of 10. Note the relationship between the
exponents and position of the decimal point in the fixed-decimal numbers as you go down the
sequence.

106 = 1,000,000
103 = 1,000 = 10 x 10 x 10
102 = 100
101 = 10
100 = 1 (anything to the zero power equals one.)
10―1 = 0.1
10―2 = 0.01 = 1/102 = 1/100
10―3 = 0.001

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Moving the Decimal

The rules are
1. To change a power of 10 (such as 103 ) to a fixed-decimal number, from 1.0, move the
decimal by the number of places equal to the exponent. For a positive exponent, move
right, for a negative exponent, move left.
Examples: 102 = 100 10―2 = 0.01
 

2. When multiplying or dividing a number by 10, 100, 1000, etc., move the decimal by the
number of zeros. When multiplying, move right, when dividing, move left.
Examples: ─ 0.0624 x 1,000 = ─ 62.4 0.47/100 = 0.0047
 

3. When writing a number that has a value between ─1 and 1, always place a zero in front
of the decimal point.
Example: Do not write .42 or ─ .74 ; do write 0.42 or ─ 0.74
During written calculations, the zero in front helps in seeing your decimals.
4. To convert from exponential notation (such as ─ 4 x 103 ) to fixed-decimal notation
(─ 4,000 ), use these rules.
a. The sign in front ( + or ─ ) does not change.
b. Move the decimal by the number of places equal to the exponent. For a positive
exponent, move right, for a negative exponent, move left.
Examples: 2.5 x 102 = 250 ─ 7,653.8 x 10―1 = ─ 765.38
 

Practice A: Write your answers, then check them at the end of this lesson.
1. (Rule 1) Write these as fixed-decimal numbers without an exponential term.
a. 107 = b. 10―5 = c. 100 =
2. (Rule 2) When dividing by 10,000 move the decimal to the _______________ by _____
places.
3. (Rule 2) Write these answers as fixed-decimal numbers.
a. 0.42 x 1000 = b. 63/100 = c. ─ 74.6/10,000 =
4. (Rule 4) Convert these values to fixed-decimal notation.

a. 3 x 103 = b. 5.5 x 10―4 =

c. 0.77 x 106 = d. ─ 95 x 10―4 =

Page 4
 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Converting to Scientific Notation

In chemistry, it is often required that numbers that are very large or very small be written
in scientific notation. Scientific notation makes values easier to compare: there are many
equivalent ways to write a value in exponential notation, but only one correct way to
express a value in scientific notation.
Scientific notation is simply a special case of exponential notation in which the significand
is 1 or greater, but less than 10, and is multiplied by 10 to a whole-number power. Another
way to say this: in scientific notation, the decimal point in the significand must be after the
first digit that is not a zero.
Example: In scientific notation, ─ 0.057x 10―2 is written as ─ 5.7 x 10―4 .
The decimal must be moved to after the first number that is not a zero: the 5.
Add the following rules to the list above.
5. To convert from exponential notation to scientific notation,
 move the decimal in the significand to after the first digit that is not a zero,
 then adjust the exponent to keep the same numeric value.

6. When moving a decimal point, the steps are:

a. The sign in front does not change.
b. If you move the decimal Y times, change the power of 10 by a count of Y.
c. If you make the significand larger, make the exponent smaller.
If you make the significand smaller, make the exponent larger.
Examples: Converting exponential to scientific notation:
0.045 x 105 = 4 . 5 x 103 ─ 8,544 x 10 ―7 = ─ 8 . 544 x 10 ―4
 
In the second case: the decimal must be after the 8. Move the decimal 3 places
to the left. This makes the significand 1000 times smaller. To keep the same
numeric value, increase the exponent by 3. This makes the 10x value 1000 times
larger.

Remember, 10─4 is 1,000 times larger than 10─7.

It helps to recite, every time you move a decimal, for the terms after the sign in front:

“If one gets smaller, the other gets larger. If one gets larger, the other gets smaller.”

7. To convert regular (fixed-decimal) numbers to exponential or scientific notation, use

these rules.
 Any number to the zero power equals one.
Examples: 20 = 1. 420 = 1. Exponential notation most often uses 100 = 1.

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

 Since any number can be multiplied by one without changing its value, any
number can be multiplied by 100 without changing its value.
Example: 42 = 42 x 1 = 42 x 100 in exponential notation
= 4.2 x 101 in scientific notation.
8. To convert fixed notation to scientific notation, the steps are
a. Add x 100 after the fixed-decimal number.
b. Apply the rules that convert exponential to scientific notation.
 Do not change the sign in front.
 Write the decimal after the first digit that is not a zero.
 Adjust the power of 10 to compensate for moving the decimal.
Example: Converting to scientific notation,
a. 943 = 943 x 100 = 9.43 x 102 .
b. ─ 0.00036 = ─ 0.00036 x 100 = ─ 3.6 x 10―4
9. When converting to scientific notation, a positive fixed-decimal number that is
 larger than one has a positive power of 10 (zero and above) in scientific notation;
 between zero and one (such as 0.25) has a negative power in scientific notation; and
 the number of places that the decimal moves in the conversion is the number after
the sign of the scientific notation exponent.
These same rules apply to numbers after a negative sign in front. The sign in front is
independent of the numbers after it.
Note how these rules apply to the two examples above.
Note also that in both exponential and scientific notation, whether the sign in front is
positive or negative has no relation to the sign of the exponential term. The sign in front
determines whether a value is positive or negative. The exponential term indicates only
the position of the decimal point.

Practice B:
1. Convert these values to scientific notation.

a. 5,420 x 103 = b. 0.0067 x 10―4 =

c. 0.00492 x 10―12 = d. ─ 602 x 1021 =

2. Which lettered parts in Problem 3 below must have powers of 10 that are negative
when written in scientific notation?
3. Write these in scientific notation.

a. 6,280 = b. 0.0093 =

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

c. 0.741 = d. ─ 1,280,000 =

4. Complete the problems in the pretest at the beginning of this lesson.

Study Summary
In your problem notebook,
 write a list of rules in this lesson that were unfamiliar or you found helpful.
 Condense your wording, number the points, and write and recite the rules until you
can write them from memory.
Then complete the problems below.

Practice C: Check () and do every other letter. If you miss one, do another letter for
that set. Save a few parts for your next study session.
1. Write these answers in fixed-decimal notation.
a. 924/10,000 = b. 24.3 x 1000 = c. ─ 0.024/10 =
2. Convert to scientific notation.
a. 0.55 x 105 b. 0.0092 x 100 c. 940 x 10―6 d. 0.00032 x 10

3. Write these numbers in scientific notation.

a. 7,700 b. 160,000,000 c. 0.023 d. 0.00067

ANSWERS (Use a sticky note as a bookmark to make answer pages easy to locate.)

Pretest: 1a. 9.4 x 106 1b. 4.2 x 104 1c. ─ 6.7 x 10―5 1d. ─ 7.7 x 101
2a. 0.0014 2b. 194 2 c. 1
Practice A
1a. 10,000,000 1b. 0.00001. 1c. 1 2. Dividing by 10,000 , move the decimal to the left by 4 places.
3a. 420 3b. 0.63 (must have zero in front) 3c. ─ 0.00746
4a. 3,000 4b. 0.00055 4c. 770,000 4d. ─ 0.0095
Practice B
1. 5.42 x 106 2. 6.7 x 10―7 3. 2.0 x 101 4. ─8.7 x 10―2 5. 4.92 x 10―15 6. ─ 6.02 x 1023
2. 2b and 2c 3a. 6.28 x 103 3b. 9.3 x 10―3 3c. 7.41 x 10―1 3d. ─ 1.28 x 106
Practice C: 1a. 0.0924 1b. 24,300 1c. ─ 0.0024
2a. 5.5 x 104 2b. 9.2 x 10―1 2c. 9.4 x 10―4 2d. 3.2 x 10―3
3a. 7.7 x 103 3b. 1.6 x 108 3c. 2.3 x 10―2 3d. 6.7 x 10―4
* * * * *

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Lesson 1B: Calculations Using Exponential Notation

Pretest: If you can answer all three of these questions correctly, you may skip to Lesson 1C.
Otherwise, complete Lesson 1B. Answers are at the end of this lesson.
Do not use a calculator. Convert your final answers to scientific notation.
1. (2.0 x 10―4) (6.0 x 1023) = 2. 1023 =
―8
(100)(3.0 x 10 )
3. (─ 6.0 x 10―18) ─ (─ 2.89 x 10―16) =
* * * * *
Mental Arithmetic
In chemistry, you must be able to estimate answers without a calculator as a check on your
calculator use. This mental math is simplified by using exponential notation. In this lesson,
we will review the rules for doing exponential calculations “in your head.”
Adding and Subtracting Exponential Notation
To add or subtract exponential notation without a calculator, the standard rules of
arithmetic can be applied – if all of the numbers have the same exponential term.
Re-writing numbers to have the same exponential term usually results in values that are
not in scientific notation. That’s OK. During calculations, the rule is: work in exponential
notation, to allow flexibility with decimal point positions, then to convert to scientific
notation at the final step.
To add or subtract numbers with exponential terms, you may convert all of the exponential
terms to any consistent power of 10. However, it usually simplifies the arithmetic if you
convert all values to the largest of the exponential terms being added or subtracted.
The rule is

To add or subtract exponential notation by hand, make all of the exponents the same.

The steps are

To add or subtract exponential notation without a calculator,

1. Re-write each number so that all of the significands are multiplied by the same power
of 10. Converting to the highest power of 10 being added or subtracted is suggested.
2. Write the significands and exponentials in columns: numbers under numbers
(lining up the decimal points), x under x, exponentials under exponentials.
3. Add or subtract the significands using standard arithmetic, then attach the common
power of 10 to the answer.
4. Convert the final answer to scientific notation.

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Follow how the steps are applied in this

Example: ( 40.71 x 108 ) + ( 222 x 106 ) = ( 40.71 x 108 ) + ( 2.22 x 108 ) =

40.71 x 108
+ 2.22 x 108
42.93 x 108 = 4.293 x 109
Using the steps above and the method shown in the example, try the following problem
without a calculator. In this problem, do not round numbers during or after the calculation.
Q. ( 32.464 x 101 ) ─ (16.2 x 10―1 ) = ?
* * * * * (See How To Use These Lessons, Point 1, on page 1)
A. ( 32.464 x 101 ) ─ (16.2 x 10―1 ) = ( 32.464 x 101 ) ─ (0.162 x 10+1 ) =
32.464 x 101 (101 has a higher value than 10―1)
─ 0.162 x 101
32.302 x 101 = 3.2302 x 102
Let’s do problem 1 again. This time, first convert each value to fixed-decimal numbers, then
do the arithmetic. Convert the final answer to scientific notation.
32.464 x 101 =
─ 16.2 x 10―1 =

* * * * *
32.464 x 101 = 324.64
─ 16.2 x 10―1 = ─ 1.62
323.02 = 3.2302 x 102
This “convert to fixed-decimal numbers” method is an option when the exponents are close
to 0. However, for exponents such as 1023 or 10―17, it is easier to use the method above
that includes the exponential, but adjusts so that all of the exponentials are the same.

Practice A: Try these without a calculator. On these, don’t round. Do convert final
answers to scientific notation. Do the odds first, then the evens if you need more practice.
1. 64.202 x 1023
+ 13.2 x 1021

2. (61 x 10―7) + (2.25 x 10―5) + (212.0 x 10―6) =

3. ( ― 54 x 10―20 ) + ( ― 2.18 x 10―18 ) =

4. ( ― 21.46 x 10―17 ) ― ( ― 3,250 x 10―19 ) =

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Multiplying and Dividing Powers of 10

The following boxed rules should be recited until they can be recalled from memory.

1. When you multiply exponentials, you add the exponents.

Examples: 103 x 102 = 105 10―5 x 10―2 = 10―7 10―3 x 105 = 102

2. When you divide exponentials, you subtract the exponents.

Examples: 103/102 = 101 10―5/102 = 10―7 10―5/10―2 = 10―3

When subtracting, remember: Minus a minus is a plus. 106―(―3) = 106+3 = 109

3. When you take the reciprocal of an exponential, change the sign.

This rule is often remembered as:
When you take an exponential term from the bottom to the top, change its sign.
Example: 1 = 10―3 ; 1/10―5 = 105
103
Why does this work? Rule 2: 1 = 100 = 100―3 = 10―3
103 103

4. 1/(1/X) = X because ( X–1) –1 = X; so 1/(1/8) = 8 and 1/(1/grams) = grams.

5. When fractions include several terms, it may help to simplify the numerator and
denominator separately, then divide.
Example: 10―3 = 10―3 = 10―6
105 x 10―2 103
Try the following problem.
Q. Without using a calculator, simplify the top, then the bottom, then divide.
10―3 x 10―4 = =
105 x 10―8
* * * * *
Answer: 10―3 x 10―4 = 10―7 = 10―7―(―3) = 10―7+3 = 10―4
105 x 10―8 10―3

Practice B: Write answers as 10 to a power. Do not use a calculator. Do the odds first,
then the evens if you need more practice.
1. 1/1023 = 2. 10―5 x 10―6 =

3. 1 = 4. 10―3 =
1/10―4 105

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5. 103 x 10―6 = 6. 105 x 1023 =

10―2 x 10―4 10―1 x 10―6
7. 100 x 10―2 = 8. 10―3 x 1023 =
1,000 x 106 10 x 1,000

Multiplying and Dividing in Exponential Notation

These are the rules we use most often.
1. When multiplying and dividing using exponential notation, handle the significands and
exponents separately.

Do number math using number rules, and exponential math using exponential rules.
Then combine the two parts.

Apply rule 1 to the following three problems.

a. Do not use a calculator: (2 x 103) (4 x 1023) =
* * * * *
For numbers, use number rules. 2 times 4 is 8
For exponentials, use exponential rules. 103 x 1023 = 103+23 = 1026
Then combine the two parts: (2 x 103) (4 x 1023) = 8 x 1026
b. Do the significand math on a calculator but try the exponential math in your
head for (2.4 x 10―3) (3.5 x 1023) =
* * * * *
Handle significands and exponents separately.
 Use a calculator for the numbers. 2.4 x 3.5 = 8.4
 Do the exponentials in your head. 10―3 x 1023 = 1020
 Then combine.
(2.4 x 10―3) (3.5 x 1023) = (2.4 x 3.5) x (10―3 x 1023) = 8.4 x 1020
We will review how much to round answers in Module 3. Until then, round numbers
and significands in your answers to two digits unless otherwise noted.
c. Do significand math on a calculator but exponential math without a calculator.
6.5 x 1023 =
4.1 x 10―8
* * * * *
Answer: 6.5 x 1023 = 6.5 x 1023 = 1.585 x [1023 ― (―8) ] = 1.6 x 1031
4.1 x 10―8 4.1 10―8
2. When dividing, if an exponential term does not have a significand, add a 1 x in front of
the exponential so that the number-number division is clear.

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Apply Rule 2 to the following problem. Do not use a calculator.

10―14 =
2.0 x 10 ―8
* * * * *
Answer: 10―14 = 1 x 10―14 = 0.50 x 10―6 = 5.0 x 10―7
2.0 x 10―8 2.0 x 10―8

Practice C
Study the two rules above, then apply them from memory to these problems. To have
room for careful work, solve these in your notebook.
Do the odds first, then the evens if you need more practice. Try these first without a
calculator, then check your mental arithmetic with a calculator if needed. Write final
answers in scientific notation, rounding significands to two digits.

1. (2.0 x 101) (6.0 x 1023) = 2. (5.0 x 10―3) (1.5 x 1015) =

3. 3.0 x 10―21 = 4. 6.0 x 10―23 =

― 2.0 x 103 2.0 x 10―4

5. 10―14 = 6. 1014 =
― 5.0 x 10―3 4.0 x 10―4
7. Complete the problems in the pretest at the beginning of this lesson.

The Role of Practice

Do as many Practice problems as you need to feel “quiz ready.”
• If the material in a lesson is relatively easy review, do the last problem on each
series of similar problems.
• If the lesson is less easy, put a check () by every 2nd or 3rd problem, then work
those problems. If you miss one, do some similar problem in the set.
• Save a few problems for your next study session -- and quiz/test review.
During Examples and Q problems, you may look back at the rules, but practice writing
and recalling new rules from memory before starting the Practice.
If you use the Practice to learn the rules, it will be difficult to find time for all of the
problems you will need to do. If you use the Practice to apply rules that are in memory,
you will need to solve fewer problems to be “quiz ready.”

Study Summary
In your problem notebook, write a list of rules in Lesson 1B that were unfamiliar, need
reinforcement, or you found helpful. Then condense your list and add this new list to your

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

numbered points from Lesson 1A. Write and recite your combined list until you can write
all of the points from memory. Then work the problems below.

Practice D
Start by doing every other letter. If you get those right, go to the next number. If not, do a
few more of that number. Save one part of each question for your next study session.
1. Try these without a calculator. Convert your final answers to scientific notation.

a. 10―2 x (6.0 x 1023) = b. (― 0.5 x 10―2)(6.0 x 1023) =

c. 3.0 x 1024 = d. 1 =
6.0 x 1023 5.0 x 1023
e. 1.0 x 10―14 = f. 1010 =
4.0 x 10―5 2.0 x 10―5
2. Use a calculator for the numbers but not for the exponents.
a. 2.46 x 1019 = b. 10―14 =
6.0 x 1023 0.0072
3. Do not use a calculator. Write answers as a power of 10.
a. 107 x 10―2 = b. 10―23 x 10―5 =
10 x 10―5 10―5 x 100
4. Convert to scientific notation in the final answer. Do not round during these.
a. ( 74 x 105 ) + ( 4.09 x 107 ) =
b. ( 5.122 x 10―9 ) ― ( ― 12,914 x 10―12 ) =

ANSWERS
Pretest. In scientific notation: 1. 1.2 x 1020 2. 3.3 x 1028 3. 2.83 x 10―16
Practice A: You may do the arithmetic in any way you choose that results in these final answers.
1. 64.202 x 1023 = 64.202 x 1023
+ 13.2 x 1021 + 0.132 x 1023
64.334 x 1023 = 6.4334 x 1024
2. 0.61 x 10―5
2.25 x 10―5 (10―5 is the highest value of the three exponentials)
+ 21.20 x 10―5
24.06 x 10―5 = 2.406 x 10―4
3. (― 54 x 10―20 ) + ( ― 2.18 x 10―18 ) = (― 0.54 x 10―18 ) + ( ― 2.18 x 10―18 ) =

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

─ 0.54 x 10―18 ( 10―18 is higher in value than 10―20 )

─ 2.18 x 10―18
─ 2.72 x 10―18
4. ( + 32.50 x 10―17 ) ― ( 21.46 x 10―17 ) = 1.104 x 10―16
Practice B
1. 10―23 2. 10―11 3. 10―4 4. 10―8 5. 103 6. 1035
7. 100 x 10―2 = 102 x 10―2 = 100 = 10―9 8. 10―3 x 1023 = 1020 = 1016
1,000 x 106 103 x 106 109 10 x 1,000 104
(For 7 and 8, you may use different steps, but you must arrive at the same answer.)
Practice C
1. 1.2 x 1025 2. 7.5 x 1012 3. ― 1.5 x 10―24 4. 3.0 x 10―19 5. ― 2.0 x 10―12 6. 2.5 x 1017
Practice D
1a. 6.0 x 1021 1b. ― 3.0 x 1021 1c. 5.0 x 100 or 5.0 1d. 2.0 x 10―24 1e. 2.5 x 10―10
1f. 1010 = 1 x 1010 = 0.50 x 1015 = 5.0 x 1014
2.0 x 10―5 2.0 x 10―5
2a. 0.41 x 10―4 = 4.1 x 10―5 2b. 0.14 x 10―11 = 1.4 x 10―12
3a. 107 x 10―2 = 105 = 109 3b. 10―23 x 10―5 = 10―25
101 x 10―5 10―4 10―5 x 102
4a. ( 0.74 x 107 ) + ( 4.09 x 107 ) = 4b. (5.122 x 10―9 ) + ( 12.914 x 10―9 ) =
= 4.83 x 107 = 18.036 x 10―9 = 1.8036 x 10―8
* * * * *

Lesson 1C: Estimating Exponential Calculations

Pretest: If you can solve both problems of these problems correctly, skip this lesson.
Convert final answers to scientific notation. Check your answers at the end of this lesson.
1. Solve this problem (10―9)(1015) =
without a calculator. (4 x 10―4)(2 x 10―2)
2. Use a calculator for the numbers, but solve the exponentials by mental arithmetic.
(3.15 x 103)(4.0 x 10―24) =
(2.6 x 10―2)(5.5 x 10―5)

* * * * *

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Complex Calculations
The prior lessons covered the fundamental rules for exponential notation. For longer
calculations, the rules are the same. The challenges are keeping track of the numbers and
using the calculator correctly. The steps below will help you to simplify complex
calculations, minimize data-entry mistakes, and quickly check your answers.
Let’s try the following calculation two ways.
(7.4 x 10―2)(6.02 x 1023) =
(2.6 x 103)(5.5 x 10―5)
Method 1. Do numbers and exponents separately.
Work the calculation above using the following steps.
a. Do the numbers on the calculator. Ignoring the exponentials, use the calculator to
multiply all of the significands on top. Write the result. Then multiply all the
significands on the bottom and write the result. Divide, write your answer rounded
to two digits, and then check below.
* * * * * (See How To Use These Lessons, Point 1, on page 1).
7.4 x 6.02 = 44.55 = 3.1
2.6 x 5.5 14.3
b. Then simplify the exponentials. Starting from the original problem, look only at
the powers of 10. Try to solve the exponential math “in your head” without the
calculator. Write the answer for the top, then the bottom, and then divide.
* * * * *
10―2 x 1023 = 1021 = 1021―(―2) = 1023
103 x 10―5 10―2
c. Now combine the significand and exponential and write the final answer.
* * * * *
3.1 x 1023. By grouping the numbers and exponents separately, you did not
need to enter the exponents into your calculator. To multiply and divide
powers of 10, you can simply add and subtract whole numbers.
Let’s try the calculation a second way.
Method 2. All on the calculator.
Enter all of the numbers and exponents into your calculator. (Your calculator manual,
which is usually available online, can help.) Write your final answer in scientific
notation. Round the significand to two digits.
On most calculators, you will need to use an E or EE or EXP or ^ key, rather than the
multiplication key, to enter a “10 to a power” term.
* * * * *
Your calculator answer, rounded, should be the same as with Method 1: 3.1 x 1023 .
Note how your calculator displays the exponential term in answers. The exponent
may be set apart at the far right, sometimes with an E in front.

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Which way was easier? “Numbers, then exponents,” or “all on the calculator?” How you
do the arithmetic is up to you, but “numbers, then exponents” is often quicker and easier.
Checking Calculator Results
Whenever a complex calculation is done on a calculator, you must do the calculation a
second time, using different steps, to catch errors in calculator use.
“Mental arithmetic estimation” is often the fastest way to check a calculator answer. To
learn this method, let’s use the calculation that was done in the first section of this lesson.
(7.4 x 10―2)(6.02 x 1023) =
(2.6 x 103)(5.5 x 10―5)
Apply the following steps to the problem above.
1. Estimate the numbers first. Ignoring the exponentials, round and then multiply all
of the top significands, and write the result. Repeat for the bottom significands.
Then write a rounded estimate for dividing those two numbers.
* * * * *
Your rounding might be
7x6 = 7 ≈ 2 (the ≈ sign means approximately equals)
3x6 3
If your mental arithmetic is good, you can estimate without a calculator. The
estimate needs to be fast, but does not need to be exact. Practice the arithmetic “in
your head.”
2. Simplify the exponents. Try without a calculator.
* * * * *
10―2 x 1023 = 1021 = 1021― (―2) = 1023
103 x 10―5 10―2
3. Combine the estimated number and exponential. Compare this estimate to the
answer found when you used a calculator in the section above. Are they close?
* * * * *
The estimate is 2 x 1023. The answer with the calculator was 3.1 x 1023. Allowing
for rounding, the two results are close.
If your fast, rounded, “done in your head” answer is close to the calculator answer, it
is likely that your calculator answer is correct. If the two answers are far apart,
check your work.
Estimating Number Division
If you know your multiplication tables, and if you memorize these simple decimal
equivalents to help in estimating division, you should be able to do many numeric
estimates without a calculator.

1/2 = 0.50 1/3 = 0.33 1/4 = 0.25 1/5 = 0.20 2/3 = 0.67 3/4 = 0.75 1/8 = 0.125

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

The method used to get your final answer should be slow and careful. Your checking
method should use different calculator keys or rounded numbers and mental arithmetic.
On timed tests, you may want to do the exact calculation first, and then go back at the end,
if time is available, and use rounded numbers as a check. When doing a calculation the
second time, try not to look back at the first answer until after you write the estimate. If you
look back, by the power of suggestion, you will often arrive at the first answer whether it is
correct or not.

For complex operations on a calculator, work each calculation a second time using
rounded numbers and/or different calculator steps or keys.

Practice
For problems 1-3, you will need to know the “fraction to decimal equivalent” conversions
in the box above. If you need practice, try this.
 On paper, draw 5 columns and 7 rows. List the 1/2
fractions down the middle column. 1/3
 Write the decimal equivalents of the fractions at 1/4
the far right. …
 Fold over those answers and repeat at the far left. Fold over those and repeat.
To start, complete the even numbered problems. If you get those right, go to the next
lesson. If you need more practice, do the odds.

Then try these next three without a calculator. Convert final answers to scientific notation.
Round the significand in the answer to two digits.
1. 4 x 103 =
(2.00)(3.0 x 107)

2. 1 =
(4.0 x 109)(2.0 x 103)

3. (3 x 10―3)(8.0 x 10―5) =
(6.0 x 1011)(2.0 x 10―3)

For Problems 4-7 below, in your notebook

 First write an estimate based on rounded numbers, then exponentials. Try to do this
estimate without using a calculator.
 Then calculate a more precise answer. You may
o plug the entire calculation into the calculator, or
o use the “numbers on calculator, exponents on paper” method, or
o experiment with both approaches to see which is best for you.

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation

Convert both the estimate and the final answer to scientific notation. Round the significand
in the answer to two digits. Use the calculator that you will be allowed to use on quizzes
and tests.
4. (3.62 x 104)(6.3 x 10―10) = 5. 10―2 =
(4.2 x 10―4)(9.8 x 10―5) (750)(2.8 x 10―15 )

.6. (1.6 x 10―3)(4.49 x 10―5) = 7. 1 =

(2.1 x 103)(8.2 x 106) (4.9 x 10―2)(7.2 x 10―5)
8. For additional practice, do the two Pretest problems at the beginning of this lesson.

ANSWERS
Pretest: 1. 1.25 x 1011 or 1.3 x 1011 2. 8.8 x 10―15
Practice: You may do the arithmetic using different steps than below, but you must get the same answer.
1. 4 x 103 = 4 x 103― 7 = 2 x 10―4 = 0.667 x 10―4 = 6.7 x 10―5
(2.00)(3.0 x 107) 6 3

2. 1 = 1 = 1 x 10―12 = 0.125 x 10―12 = 1.3 x 10―13

(4.0 x 10 )(2.0 x 103)
9 8 x 1012 8
3. ( 3 x 10―3 )(8.0 x 10―5) = 8 x 10―3―5 = 2 x 10―8 = 2 x 10―8―8 = 2.0 x 10―16
( 2 6.0 x 1011)(2.0 x 10―3) 4 1011―3 108
4. First the estimate. The rounding for the numbers might be
4 x 6 = 0.6 For the exponents: 104 x 10―10 = 10―6 = 109 x 10―6 = 103
4 x 10 10―4 x 10―5 10―9
≈ 0.6 x 103 ≈ 6 x 102 (estimate) in scientific notation.
For the precise answer, doing numbers and exponents separately,
(3.62 x 104)(6.3 x 10―10) = 3.62 x 6.3 = 0.55 The exponents are done as in the estimate above.
(4.2 x 10―4)(9.8 x 10―5) 4.2 x 9.8
= 0.55 x 103 = 5.5 x 102 (final) in scientific notation (and close to the estimate).

5. 4.8 x 109 6. 4.2 x 10―18 7. 2.8 x 105 8a. 1.25 x 1011 8b. 8.8 x 10―15
* * * * *

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

SUMMARY – Scientific Notation

1. When writing a number between ─1 and 1, place a zero in front of the decimal point.
Do not write .42 or ─ .74 ; do write 0.42 or ─ 0.74
2. Exponential notation represents numeric values in three parts:
 a sign in front showing whether the value is positive or negative;
 a number (the significand);
 times a base taken to a power (the exponential term).
3. In scientific notation, the significand must be a number that is 1 or greater, but less than
10, and the exponential term must be 10 to a whole-number power. This places the
decimal point in the significand after the first number which is not a zero.
4. When moving a decimal in exponential notation, the sign in front never changes.
5. To keep the same numeric value when moving the decimal of a number in base 10
exponential notation, if you
 move the decimal Y times to make the significand larger, make the exponent
smaller by a count of Y;
 move the decimal Y times to make the significand smaller, make the exponent
larger by a count of Y.
When moving the decimal, for the numbers after the sign in front,

“If one gets smaller, the other gets larger. If one gets larger, the other gets smaller.”

6. To add or subtract exponential notation by hand, all of the values must be converted to
have the same exponential term.
 Convert all of the values to have the same power of 10.
 List the significands and exponential in columns.
 Add or subtract the significands.
 Attach the common exponential term to the answer.
7. In multiplication and division using scientific or exponential notation, handle numbers
and exponential terms separately. Recite and repeat to remember:
 Do numbers by number rules and exponents by exponential rules.
 When you multiply exponentials, you add the exponents.
 When you divide exponentials, you subtract the exponents.
 When you take an exponential term to a power, you multiply the exponents.
 To take the reciprocal of an exponential, change the sign of the exponent.
 For any X: 1/(1/X) = X
8. In calculations using exponential notation, try the significands on the calculator but the
exponents on paper.
9. For complex operations on a calculator, do each calculation a second time using rounded
numbers and/or a different key sequence on the calculator.
# # # #

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

Module 2 – The Metric System

Lesson 2A: Metric Fundamentals
Have you previously mastered the metric system? If you get a perfect score on the
following pretest, you may skip to Lesson 2B. If not, complete Lesson 2A.

Pretest: Write answers to these, then check your answers at the end of Lesson 2A.
1. What is the mass, in kilograms, of 150 cm3 of liquid water?
2. How many cm3 are in a liter? 3. How many dm3 are in a liter?
4. 2.5 pascals is how many millipascals? 5. 3,500 cg is how many kg?

* * * * *
The Importance of Units
The fastest and most effective way to solve problems in chemistry is to focus on the units
that measure quantities. In science, measurements and calculations are done using the
metric system.
All measurement systems begin by defining base units that measure the fundamental
quantities, including distance, mass, and time.
Distance
In the metric system, the base unit for distance is the meter, abbreviated m. One meter is
about 39.3 inches, slightly longer than one yard. A meter stick is usually numbered in
centimeters.

|||||||||10|||||||||20|||||||||30|||||||||40|||||||||50|||||||||60||||||||70|||||||||80|||||||||90||||||||
The relationships we will use most frequently in the metric system can be written based on
the meter stick. Call this metric Rule

1. The “meter-stick” equalities

1 meter ≡ 10 decimeters ≡ 100 centi meters ≡ 1,000 millimeters
1000 meters ≡ 1 kilometer
The symbol ≡ means “is defined as equal to” and/or “is exactly equal to.”

Deci-, centi-, milli-, and kilo- are examples of metric prefixes.

To help in remembering Rule 1, picture the meter stick with 1 meter = 100 centimeters.
To help in remembering the kilometer definition, visualize 1,000 meter sticks in a row.
That’s a distance of one kilometer. 1 kilometer ≡ 1,000 meter sticks.

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

Rule 1 defines the first three metric prefixes the “1 meter =” format. A second way to
define the prefixes is using the “1-prefix” format in Rule 2.

2. The “one prefix” definitions

1 millimeter ≡ 10―3 meters ( ≡ 1/1000th meter ≡ 0.001 meters)
1 centimeter ≡ 10―2 meters ( ≡ 1/100th meter ≡ 0.01 meters)
1 decimeter ≡ 10―1 meters ( ≡ 1/10th meter ≡ 0.1 meters)
1 kilometer ≡ 103 meters (≡ 1,000 meters)

Because both the “1 meter =” and “1-prefix” formats are used in textbooks and calculations,
you will need to write them both. Once you commit Rule 1 to memory, Rule 2 should be
easy to write because it is mathematically equivalent. Rule 1 uses the “1 meter =” format
and Rule 2 uses the “1-prefix” format.
Rules 1 and 2 are important because of Rule

3. You may substitute any unit for meter in the equalities above.

Rule 3 means that the prefix relationships that are true for meters are true for any units of
measure. The three rules above allow us to write a wide range of equalities that we can
use to solve science calculations, such as
1 liter ≡ 1,000 milliliters 1 centigram ≡ 10―2 grams 1 kilocalorie ≡ 103 calories
One prefix can be written in front of any metric base unit.
To use kilo- , deci-, centi- or milli- with any units, you simply need to be able to write or
recall from memory the metric equalities in Rules 1 and 2 above.

Practice A: Write Rules 1 and 2 until you can do so from memory. Learn Rule 3.
Then complete these problems without looking back at the rules.
1. From memory, add exponential terms to these blanks.
a. 1 millimeter = ______meters b. 1 deciliter = _______ liter

2. From memory, add full metric prefixes to these blanks.

a. 1000 grams = 1 _________gram b. 10―2 liters = 1 ___________liter

Volume
Volume is the amount of three-dimensional space that a material or shape occupies.
Volume is termed a derived quantity, rather than a fundamental quantity, because it is
derived from distance. Any volume unit can be converted to a distance unit cubed.

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

A cube that is 1 centimeter wide by 1 cm high by 1 cm long has a volume of one cubic
centimeter (1 cm3). In biology and medicine, cm3 is often abbreviated as “cc” but cm3 is
the abbreviation used in chemistry.
In chemistry, cubic centimeters are usually referred to as milliliters, abbreviated as mL.
One milliliter is defined as exactly one cubic centimeter. Based on this definition, since
 1,000 millimeters ≡ 1 meter , and 1,000 millianythings ≡ 1 anything,
 1,000 milliliters is therefore defined as 1 liter (1 L).
The mL is a convenient measure for smaller volumes, while the liter (about 1.1 quarts) is
preferred when measuring larger volumes.
One liter is the same as one cubic decimeter ( 1 dm3 ). Note how these units are related.
 The volume of a cube that is 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm = 1,000 cm3 = 1,000 mL
 Since 10 cm ≡ 1 dm, the volume of this same cube can be calculated as
1 dm x 1 dm x 1 dm ≡ 1 cubic decimeter ≡ 1 dm3
Based on the above, by definition, all of the following terms are equal.
1,000 cm3 ≡ 1,000 mL ≡ 1 L ≡ 1 dm3
What do you need to remember about volume? For now, just two more sets of equalities.

4. 1 milliliter (mL) ≡ 1 cm3

5. 1 liter ≡ 1,000 mL ≡ 1,000 cm3 ≡ 1 dm3

Mass
Mass measures the amount of matter in an object. Mass and weight are not the same, but
in chemistry, unless stated otherwise, we assume that mass is measured under constant
gravity, so that mass and weight can be measured with the same instruments.
The metric base-unit for mass is the gram. One gram (g) was originally defined as the mass
of one cubic centimeter of liquid water [ H2O(l) ]at 4° Celsius, the temperature at which water
has its highest density. The modern SI definition for one gram is a bit more complicated,
but it is close to the historic definition. We will often use the historic definition in
calculations involving liquid water if high precision is not required. For most calculations
involving liquid water near room temperature, the following approximation may be used.

6. 1 cm3 H2O(liquid) ≡ 1 mL H2O(l)  1.00 gram H2O(l) (  means approximately)

Temperature
Metric temperature scales are defined by the properties of water. The unit of the
temperature scale is termed a degree Celsius (ºC).
0ºC = the freezing point of water.
100ºC = the boiling point of water at a pressure of one atmosphere.

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

Room temperature is generally between 20ºC (which is 68ºF) and 25ºC (77ºF).

Time: The base unit for time in the metric system is the second.
Unit and Prefix Abbreviations
The following list of abbreviations should also be committed to memory. Given the unit or
prefix, you need to be able to write the abbreviation, and given the abbreviation, you need
to be able to write the prefix or unit.
Unlike other abbreviations, abbreviations for metric units do not have periods at the end.
Units: m = meter g = gram s = second
L = liter = dm3 = cubic decimeter cm3 = cubic centimeter = mL = “cc”
The most frequently used prefixes are: k- = kilo- d- = deci- c- = centi- m- = milli-
Additional metric system abbreviations for time units that we will use in these lessons
include: minute = min, hour = hr, and year = yr.

Practice B: Write Rules 1 through 6 until you can do so from memory. Learn the unit
and prefix abbreviations as well. Then complete the following problems without looking
back at the lesson above.
1. Fill in the prefix abbreviations: 1 m = 10 ____m = 100 ____m = 1000 ____m
2. From memory, add metric prefix abbreviations to the following blanks.
a. 103 g = 1 ____g b. 10―3 s = 1 ___s
3. From memory, add fixed-decimal numbers to these blanks.

a. 1000 cm3 = _________ mL b. 100 cm3 H2O(l) ≈ _______ grams H2O (l)

4. Add fixed-decimal numbers: 1 liter ≡ ________ mL ≡ _______ cm3 ≡ ________ dm3

SI Units
The modern metric system (Le Système International d’Unités) is referred to as the SI system
and is based on what are termed the SI units. SI units are a subset of metric units that
chooses one preferred metric unit as the standard for measuring each physical quantity.
The SI standard unit for distance is the meter, for mass is the kilogram, and for time is the
second. Historically, the SI system is derived from what was termed the mks system
because it measured meters, kilograms, and seconds.
In physics, and in many chemistry calculations that are based on relationships derived from
physics, using SI standard units is essential to simplify calculations.
However, for dealing with laboratory-scale quantities, measurements and calculations
frequently use units that are not SI but are metric. For example, in chemistry we generally
measure volume in liters or milliliters instead of cubic meters. In Modules 4 and 5, you will

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

learn to convert between the non-SI units often used in chemistry and the SI units that we
will need to use for some types of chemistry calculations.
Learning the Metric Fundamentals
A strategy that can help in problem-solving is to start each homework assignment, quiz, or
test by writing recently memorized rules at the top of your paper. By writing the rules at
the beginning, you avoid having to remember them under time pressure later in the test.
We will use equalities to solve most initial
chemistry calculations. The 7 metric
Metric Basics
basics define the equalities that we will 1. 1 meter ≡ 10 decimeters
use most often. ≡ 100 centimeters
≡ 1000 millimeters
A Note on Memorization
1,000 meters ≡ 1 kilometer
A goal of these lessons is to minimize
what you must memorize. However, it is 2. 1 millimeter ≡ 1 mm ≡ 10─3 meter
not possible to eliminate memorization
1 centimeter ≡ 1 cm ≡ 10─2 meter
from science courses. When there are
facts which you must memorize in order 1 decimeter ≡ 1 dm ≡ 10─1 meter
to solve problems, these lessons will tell 1 kilometer ≡ 1 km ≡ 103 meter
you. This is one of those times.
3. Any word can be substituted for meter
Memorize the table of metric basics in the above.
box at the right. You will need to write
4. 1 mL ≡ 1 cm3 ≡ 1 cc
them automatically, from memory, as
part of most assignments in chemistry. 5. 1 liter ≡ 1000 mL ≡ 1000 cm3 ≡ 1 dm3

Memorization Tips 6. 1 cm3 H2O(liquid) ≡ 1 mL H2O(l)

When you memorize, it helps to use as  1.00 gram H2O(l)

many senses as you can. 7. meter ≡ m ; gram ≡ g ; second ≡ s
 Say the rules out loud, over and
over, as you would to learn lines
for a play.
 Write the equations several times, in the same way and order each time.
 Organize the rules into patterns, rhymes, or mnemonics.
 Number the rules so you know which rule you forgot, and when to stop.
 Picture real objects:
o Sketch a meter stick, then write the first two metric rules and compare to your
sketch.
o For volume, mentally picture a 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm = 1 cm3 cube.
Call it one mL. Fill it with water to make a mass of 1.00 grams.
├1 cm ┤
After repetition, you will recall new rules automatically. That’s the goal.

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

Practice C: Study the 7 rules in the Metric Basics table above, then write the table on
paper from memory. Repeat until you can write all parts of the table from memory. Then
cement your knowledge by answering these questions.
1. In your mind, picture a kilometer and a millimeter. Which is larger?
2. Which is larger, a kilojoule or a millijoule?
3. Name four units that can be used to measure volume in the metric system.
4. How many liters are in a kiloliter?
5. What is the mass of 15 milliliters of liquid water?
6. One liter of liquid water has what mass in grams?
7. What is the volume of one gram of ice?

ANSWERS
Pretest: 1. 0.15 kg 2. 1,000 cm3 3. 1 dm3 4. 2,500 millipascals 5. 0.035 kg
Practice A
1a. 1 millimeter = 10―3 meters 1b. 1 deciliter = 10―1 liter
2a. 1000 grams = 1kilogram 2b. 10―2 liters = 1 centiliter
Practice B
1. 1 m = 10 dm = 100 cm = 1000 mm 2a. 103 g = 1 kg 2b. 10―3 s = 1 ms
3a. 1000 cm3 = 1000 mL 3b. 100 cm3 H2O(l) = 100 grams H2O(l)
4. 1 liter ≡ 1000 mL ≡ 1000 cm3 ≡ 1 dm3
Practice C
1. A kilometer 2. A kilojoule
3. Possible answers include cubic centimeters, milliliters, liters, cubic decimeters, cubic meters, and any
metric distance unit cubed.
4. 1,000 liters 5. 15 grams 6. 1,000 grams
7. These lessons have not supplied the answer. Water expands when it freezes. So far, we only know the
answer for liquid water.
* * * * *

Lesson 2B: Metric Prefixes

Pretest: If you have previously mastered use of the prefixes in the table below, try the
Practice B problems at the end of this lesson. If you get those right, you may skip this
lesson.
* * * * *

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

Additional Prefixes
For measurements of very large or very small Prefix Abbreviation Means
quantities, prefixes larger than kilo- and smaller
than milli- may be used. The 13 prefixes
tera- T- x 1012
encountered most frequently are listed in the giga- G- x 109
table at the right. Note that
mega- M- x 106
 Outside of the range between 3 and ─ 3,
kilo- k- x 103
metric prefixes are abbreviations of powers
of 10 that are divisible by 3. hecto- h- x 102
 When a full prefix name is written, the first deka- da- x 101
letter is not normally capitalized.
deci- d- x 10―1
 For prefixes above k- (kilo-), the abbreviation
for a prefix must be capitalized. centi- c- x 10―2
 For the prefixes k- and below, all letters of milli- m- x 10―3
the abbreviation must be lower case. micro- μ- (mu) or u- x 10―6
Using Prefixes nano- n- x 10―9
A metric prefix is interchangeable with the
pico- p- x 10―12
exponential term it represents. For example,
during measurements and/or calculations: femto- f- x 10―15
 An exponential term can be substituted for its equivalent metric prefix.
Examples: 7.0 milliliters = 7.0 x 10―3 liters
5.6 kg = 5.6 x 103 g
43 nanometers = 43 nm = 43 x 10―9 m
 A metric prefix can be substituted for its equivalent exponential term.
Examples: 3.5 x 10―12 meters = 3.5 picometers = 3.5 pm
7.2 x 106 watts = 7.2 megawatts
In calculations, we will often need to convert between a prefix and its equivalent
exponential term. One way is to apply the prefix definitions.
Q1. From memory, fill in these blanks with prefixes (do not abbreviate).
a. 103 grams = 1 _________gram b. 2 x 10―3 meters = 2 ________ meters
Q2. From memory, fill in these blanks with prefix abbreviations.
a. 2.6 x 10―1 L = 2.6 ____L b. 6 x 10―2 g = 6 ____g
Q3. Fill in these blanks with exponential terms (use the table above if needed).

a. 1 gigajoule = 1 x _______ joules b. 9 μm = 9 x ________ m

* * * * *

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

1a. 103 grams = 1 kilogram 1b. 2 x 10―3 meters = 2 millimeters

2a. 2.6 x 10―1 L = 2.6 dL 2b. 6 x 10―2 g = 6 cg
3a. 1 gigajoule = 1 x 109 joules 3b. 9 μm = 9 x 10─6 m

From the prefix definitions, even if you are not yet familiar with a unit or the quantity that
the unit is measuring, you can convert between its prefix-unit value and its value using
exponentials.
Science Versus Computer-Science Prefixes
Computer science, which calculates based on powers of 2, uses slightly different definitions
for prefixes, such as kilo- = 210 = 1,024 instead of 1,000. However, in chemistry and all other
sciences, for all base units, the prefix to power-of-10 relationships in the metric-prefix table
are exact definitions.
Learning the Additional Prefixes
To solve calculations, you will need to recall each of the rows in the table of 13 metric
prefixes quickly and automatically. To begin, practice writing the table from memory. To
help, look for patterns and memory devices. Note
 Tera- = T- = 10Twelve and nano- (which connotes small) = n- = 10─nine .
Focusing on those two can help to “anchor” the prefixes near them in the table.
Then make a self-quiz: on a sheet of paper, draw a table 3 columns across and 14 rows
down. In the top row, write

Prefix Abbreviation Means

Fill in the table. Repeat writing the table until you can do so from memory, then try the
problems below without looking back at your table.

Practice A: Use a sticky note to mark the answer page at the end of this lesson.
1. From memory, add exponential terms to these blanks.

a. 7 microseconds = 7 x ______ seconds b. 9 fg = 9 x ________ g

c. 8 cm = 8 x ________ m d. 1 ng = 1 x ________ g

2. From memory, add full metric prefixes to these blanks.

a. 6 x 10─2 amps = 6 ____________ amps b. 45 x 109 watts = 45 ________watts

3. From memory, add prefix abbreviations to these blanks.

a. 1012 g = 1 ____g b. 10―12 s = 1 ___s c. 5 x 10─1 L = 5 ____ L

4. When writing prefix abbreviations by hand, write so that you can distinguish between
(add a prefix abbreviation) 5 x 10─3 g = 5 ____g and 5 x 106 g = 5 ____g

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

5. For which prefix abbreviations is the first letter always capitalized?

6. Write 0.30 gigameters/second without a prefix, in scientific notation.

Converting Between Prefix Formats

To solve calculations in chemistry, we will often use conversion factors that are
constructed from metric prefix definitions. For those definitions, we have learned two
types of equalities.
 Our “meter stick” equalities are based on what one unit is equal to:

1 meter ≡ 10 decimeters ≡ 100 centimeters ≡ 1,000 millimeters

 Our prefix definitions are based on what one prefix is equal to, such as nano = 10─9 .
It is essential to be able to correctly write both forms of the metric definitions, because work
in science often uses both.
For example, to convert between milliliters and liters, we can use either
 1 mL = 10─3 L , based on what 1 milli- means, or
 1,000 mL = 1 L ; which is an easy-to-visualize definition of one liter.
Those two equalities are equivalent. The second equality is simply the first with the
numbers on both sides multiplied by 1,000.
However, note that 1 mL = 10─3 L , but 1 L = 103 mL . The numbers in the equalities
change depending on whether the 1 is in front of the prefix or the unit. Which format
should we use? How do we avoid errors?
In these lessons, we will generally use the one prefix equalities to solve problems. After
learning the fundamental definitions for the 10 prefixes in the table, such as
1 milli- = 10─3, using the definitions makes conversions easy to check.
Once those prefix, abbreviation, and meanings are in memory, we will then need to “watch
where the 1 is.” If you need to write or check prefix equalities in the “one unit =” format,
you can derive them from the one prefix definitions, by writing the table if needed.
For example, 1 gram = ______ micrograms?
 The prefix table show that 1 micro-anything = 10─6 anythings, so
 1 microgram = 10─6 grams
 To get a 1 in front of gram, we multiply both sides by 106, so
 1 gram = 106 micrograms ( = 106 μg = 1,000,000 micrograms )

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

The steps above can be summarized as the reciprocal rule for prefixes:

If 1 prefix- = 10a , 1 unit = 10─a prefix-units In words:

To change a prefix definition between the “1 prefix- = “ format and the “1 unit = “
format, change the sign of the exponent.

If you need to check your logic, write a familiar example:

Since 1 milliliter = 10─3 liter , then 1 liter = 103 milliliters = 1,000 mL
Fill in these blanks with exponential terms.
Q1. 1 nanogram = 1 x ______ grams , so 1 gram = 1 x ______ nanograms

Q2. 1 dL = 1 x ______ liters , so 1 L = 1 x ______ dL

* * * * *
A1. 1 nanogram = 1 x 10─9 grams , so 1 gram = 1 x 109 nanograms
A2. 1 dL = 1 x 10─1 liters , so 1 L = 1 x 101 dL = 10 dL
To summarize:
 When using metric prefix definitions, be careful to note whether the 1 is in front of
the prefix or the unit.
 To avoid confusing the signs of the exponential terms in prefix definitions,
memorize the table of 13 one prefix definitions. Then, if you need an equality with a
“1 unit = 10x prefix-unit” format, reverse the sign of the prefix definition.

Practice B: Write the table of the 13 metric prefixes until you can do so from memory,
then try to do these without consulting the table.
1. Fill in the blanks with exponential terms.

a. 1 terasecond = 1 x ______ seconds , so 1 second = 1 x ______ teraseconds

b. 1 µg = 1 x ______ grams , so 1 g = 1 x ______ µg

2. Apply the reciprocal rule to add exponential terms to these one unit equalities.

a. 1 gram = _______ centigrams b. 1 meter = ___________ picometers

c. 1 s = ___________ ms d. 1 s = ___________ Ms
3. Add exponential terms to these blanks. Watch where the 1 is!

a. 1 micromole = _____ moles b. 1 g = 1 x _______ Gg

c. 1 hectogram = 1 x _______ grams d. f. 1 fL = ________ L

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

ANSWERS
Practice A
1a. 7 x 10─6 seconds 1b. 9 x 10─15 g 1c. 8 x 10─2 m 1d. 1 x 10─9 g
2a. 6 centiamps 2b. 45 gigawatts 3a. 1 Tg 3b. 1 ps 3c. 5 dL
4. 5 mg and 5 Mg 5. M-, G-, and T-. 6. 3.0 x 108 meters/second
Practice B
1. a. 1 terasecond = 1 x 1012 seconds , so 1 second = 1 x 10─12 teraseconds
b. 1 µg = 1 x 10─6 grams , so 1 g = 1 x 106 µg
2. a. 1 gram = 102 centigrams ( For “ 1 unit = “, take reciprocal (reverse sign) of prefix meaning )
b. 1 meter = 1012 picometers c. 1 s = 103 ms d. 1 s = 1 x 10─6 Ms
3. a. 10─6 moles 3b. 1 x 10─9 Gg 3c. 1 x 102 grams 3d. 10─15 L
* * * * *

Lesson 2C: Cognitive Science – and Flashcards

In this lesson, you will learn a system that will help you automatically recall the vocabulary
needed to read science with comprehension and the facts needed to solve calculations.
Human Cognitive Architecture
Cognitive science studies how the mind works and how it learns. The model that science
uses to describe learning includes the following fundamentals.
 The purpose of learning is to solve problems. You solve problems using
information from your immediate environment and your memory.
The human brain contains different types of memory, including
 Working memory: the part of your brain where you solve problems.
 Short-term memory: information that you remember for only a few days.
 Long-term memory: information that you can recall for many years.
Working memory is limited, but human long-term memory has enormous capacity. The
goal of learning is to move new information from short into long-term memory so that it
can be recalled by working memory for years after initial study. If information is not
moved into long-term memory, useful learning has not taken place.
Children learn speech naturally, but most other learning requires repeated thought about
the meaning of new information, plus practice at recalling new facts and using new skills
that is timed in ways that encourage the brain to move new learning from short to long-term
memory.
The following principles of cognitive science will be helpful to keep in mind during your
study of chemistry and other disciplines.
1. Learning is cumulative. Experts in a field learn new information quickly because they
already have in long-term memory a storehouse of knowledge about the context

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surrounding new information. That storehouse must be developed over time, with
practice.
2. Learning is incremental (done in small pieces). Especially for an unfamiliar subject,
there is a limit to how much new information you can move into long-term memory in
a short amount of time. Knowledge is extended and refined gradually. In learning,
steady wins the race.
3. Your brain can do parallel processing. Though adding information to long term
memory is a gradual process, studies indicate that your brain can work on separately
remembering what something looks like, where you saw it, what it sounds like, how
you say it, how you write it, and what it means, all at the same time. The cues
associated with each separate type of memory can help to trigger the recall of
information needed to solve a problem, so it helps to use multiple strategies. When
learning new information: listen, see, say, write, and try to connect it to other
information that helps you to remember its meaning.
4. The working memory in your brain is limited. Working memory is where you think.
Try multiplying 56 by 23 in your head. Now try it with a pencil, a paper, and your
head. Because of limitations in working memory, manipulating multiple pieces of new
information “in your head” is difficult. Learning stepwise procedures (standard
algorithms) that write the results of middle steps is one way to reduce “cognitive load”
during problem solving.
5. “Automaticity in the fundamentals” is another learning strategy that can help to
overcome limitations in working memory. When you can recall facts quickly due to
repeated practice, more working memory is available for higher level thought.
You can do work that is automatic while you think (most of us can think while walking),
but it is difficult to think about more than one problem at once.
6. Concepts are crucial. Your brain works to construct a “conceptual framework” to
categorize knowledge being learned so that you can recall facts and procedures when
you need them. The brain tends to store new information in long-term memory only if
it is in agreement with your “mental models” of concepts. In addition, if you have a
more complete and accurate understanding of “the big picture,” your brain is better
able to judge which information should be selected to solve a problem.
Concepts do not replace the need to move key facts and procedures into your long-term
memory, but knowing concepts speeds initial learning, recall, and appropriate
application of your knowledge in long-term memory.
7. “You can always look it up” is a poor strategy for problem-solving. Your working
memory is quite limited in how much information it can manipulate that is not in your
long-term memory. The more information you must stop to look up, the less likely you
will be able to follow your train of thought to the end of a complex problem.

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Building Long-Term Memory

How can you promote the retention of needed fundamentals? It takes practice, but some
forms of practice are more effective than others. Attention to the following factors can
improve your retention of information in long-term memory.
1. Overlearning. If you practice until you can recall new information only one time, you
will tend to recall that information for only a few days. To be able to recall new facts
and skills for more than a few days, repeated practice to perfection (which cognitive
scientists call overlearning) is necessary.
2. The spacing effect. To retain what you learn, 20 minutes of study spaced over 3 days is
more effective than one hour of study for one day.
Studies of “massed versus distributed practice” show that if the initial learning of facts
and vocabulary is practiced over 3-4 days, then re-visited weekly for 2-3 weeks, then
monthly for 3-4 months, it can often be recalled for decades thereafter.
3. Effort. Experts in a field usually attribute their success to “hard work over an extended
period of time” rather than to “talent.”
4. Core skills. The facts and processes you should practice most often are those needed
most often in the discipline.
5. Get a good night’s sleep. There is considerable evidence that while you sleep, your
brain reviews the experience of your day to decide what to store in long-term memory.
Sufficient sleep promotes retention of what you learn.
[For additional science that relates to learning, see Willingham, Daniel [2007] Cognition: The
Thinking Animal. Prentice Hall, and Bruer, John T. [1994] Schools for Thought. MIT Press.] ]

Practice A: These are “black ink” questions: Answer them in your spiral notebook.)
1. What is “overlearning?” 2. What is the “spacing effect?”
3. Define “automaticity” as it applies to cognition, and briefly explain why it is important.

Flashcards
Which is more important in learning: Knowing facts or concepts? Cognitive studies have
found that you must know both. To “think as an expert,” you need a storehouse of factual
information in long-term memory that you can apply to new and unique problems,
organized by concepts that add meaning to what you know .
In these lessons, we will use the following flashcard system to master fundamentals that
need to be recalled automatically in order to efficiently solve problems. Using this system,
you will make two types of flashcards:
 “One-way” cards for questions that make sense in one direction; and
 “Two-way” cards for facts that need to be recalled in both directions.

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If you have access to about 30 3” x 5” index cards, you can get started now. Plan to buy
tomorrow about 100-200 3x5 index cards, lined or unlined. (A variety of colors is helpful
but not essential.) Complete these steps.
1. On 12-15 of your 30 initial cards (of the same color if possible), cut a triangle off the top-
right corner, making cards like this:
These cards will be used for questions that go in one direction.
Keeping the notch at the top right will identify the front side.

2. Using the following table, cover the answers in the right column with a folded sheet or
index card. For each question in the left column, verbally answer, then slide the cover
sheet down to check your answer. Put a check beside questions that you answer
accurately and without hesitation. When done, write the questions and answers
without checks onto the notched cards.
Front-side of cards (with notch at top right): Back Side -- Answers
To convert to scientific notation, move the decimal
After the first number that is not a zero
to…
If you make the significand larger Make the exponent smaller
420 Any number to the zero power = 1
To add or subtract in exponential notation Make all exponents the same
Simplify 1/(1/X) X
To divide exponentials (with the same base) Subtract the exponents
To bring an exponent from the bottom of a fraction
Change its sign
to the top
1 cc ≡ 1 ___ ≡ 1 ___ 1 cc ≡ 1 cm3 ≡ 1 mL
0.0018 in scientific notation = 1.8 x 10─3
1 L ≡ ___ mL ≡ ___ dm3 1 L ≡ 1000 mL ≡ 1 dm3
To multiply exponentials (that have the same base) Add the exponents
Simplify 1/10x 10─x
74 in scientific notation = 7.4 x 101
The original definition of 1 gram The mass of 1 cm3 of liquid water at 4ºC.
8x7= 56
42/6 = 7
If there is any multiplication or division up to 12 x 12 that you cannot answer instantly,
add those to your list of one-sided cards. If you need a calculator to do number math,
parts of chemistry such as “balancing an equation” will be frustrating. With flashcard
practice, you will quickly be able to remember what you need to know.

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

3. To make “two-way” cards, use the index cards as they are, without a notch cut.
For the following cards, first cover the right column, then put a check on the left if you
can answer the left column question quickly and correctly. Then cover the left column
and check the right side if you can answer the right-side automatically.
When done, if a row does not have two checks, make the flashcard.
Two-way cards (without a notch):

103 g or 1,000 g = 1 __g 1 kg = ____ g

Boiling temperature of water 100 degrees Celsius -- if 1 atm. pressure
1 nanometer = 1 x ___ meters 1 ____meter = 1 x 10─9 meters
Freezing temperature of water 0 degrees Celsius

4.7 x10─3 = ______________(number) 0.0047 = 4.7 x10?

1 GHz =10? Hz 109 Hz = 1 __Hz 2/3 = 0.? 0.666… = ? / ?

1 pL = 10? L 10─12 L = 1 __L 1/80 = 0.? 0.0125 = 1 / ?
3/4 = 0.? 0.75 = ? / ? 1 dm3 = 1 ___ 1 L = 1 __
1/8 = 0.? 0.125 = 1 / ? 1/4 = 0.? 0.25 = 1 / ?
More two-way cards (without a notch) for the metric-prefix definitions.

mega- = x 10? x 106 = ? Prefix d- = x 10? x 10─1 = ? abbr. micro =? abbr. µ- = ? pref.

nano- = x 10? x 10─9 = ? pref. m- = x 10? x 10─3 = ? abbr. mega =? abbr. M = ? pref.

giga- = x 10? x 109 = ? Prefix T- = x 10? x 1012 = ? abbr. deka =? abbr. da = ? pref.

micro- = x 10? x 10─6 = ? pref. n- = x 10? x 10─9 = ? abbr. pico =? abbr. p = ? prefix

deci- = x 10? x 10─1 = ? pref. f- = x 10? x 10─15 = ? abb deci =? abbr. d = ? prefix

tera- = x 10? x 1012 = ? pref. µ- = x 10? x 10─6 = ? abbr. hecto =? abbr. h = ? prefix

pico- = x 10? x 10─12 = ? pref G- = x 10? x 109 = ? abbr. tera =? abbr. T = ? prefix

hecto- = x 10? x 102 = ? Prefix da- = x 10? x 101 = ? abbr. milli =? abbr. m = ? pref.

deka- = x 10? x 101 = ? Prefix p- = x 10? x 10─12 = ? abb femto =? abbr. f = ? prefix

femto- = x 10? x 10─15 = ? pref c- = x 10? x 10─2 = ? abbr. giga =? abbr. G = ? pref.

M- = x 10? x 106 = ? abbr. h- = x 10? x 102 = ? abbr. nano =? abbr. n = ? prefix

Which cards you need will depend on your prior knowledge, but when in doubt, make
the card. On fundamentals, you need quick, confident, accurate recall -- every time.
4. Practice with one type of card at a time.
 For front-sided cards, if you get a card right quickly, place it in the got -it stack. If
you miss a card, say it. Close your eyes. Say it again. And again. If needed, write

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it several times. Return that card to the bottom of the do deck. Practice until every
card is in the got-it deck.
 For two-sided cards, do the same steps as above in one direction, then the other.
5. Master the cards at least once, then apply them to the Practice on the topic of the new
cards. Treat Practice as a practice test.
6. For 3 days in a row, repeat those steps. Repeat again before working assigned
problems, before your next quiz, and before your next test that includes this material.
7. Make cards for new topics early: before the lectures on a topic if possible. Mastering
fundamentals first will help in understanding lecture.
8. Rubber band and carry new cards. Practice during “down times.”
9. After a few modules or topics, change card colors.
This system requires an initial investment of time, but in the long run it will save time and
improve achievement.
The above flashcards are examples. As needed, add cards of your design and content.
Flashcards, Charts, or Lists?
What is the best strategy for learning new information? Use multiple strategies: numbered
lists, mnemonics, phrases that rhyme, flashcards, reciting, and writing what must be
remembered. Practice repeatedly, spaced over time.
For complex information, automatic recall may be less important than being able to
methodically write out a chart for information that falls into patterns.
For the metric system, learning flashcards and the prefix chart and picturing the meter-stick
relationships all help to fix these fundamentals in memory.

Practice B: Run your set of flashcards until all cards are in the “got-it” pile. Then try
these problems. Make additional cards if needed. Run the cards again in a day or two.
1. Fill in the blanks.

Format: 1 prefix- 1 base unit

1 micrometer = ______ meters 1 meter = _______ micrometers

1 gigawatt = ______ watts 1 watt = ________ gigawatts

1 nanoliter = ______ liter _______ nanoliters = 1 liter

2. Add exponential terms to these blanks. Watch where the 1 is!

a. 1 picocurie = ___________ curies b. 1 megawatt = ___________watts

c. 1 dag = ____________ g d. 1 mole = ___________ millimoles

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

e. 1 m = ___________ nm f. 1 kPa = ____________ Pa

3. Answer these without using a calculator.

a. 10─6/10─8 = b. 1/5 = ___.___ ___ c. 1/50 = ___.___ ___ ___

ANSWERS
Practice A
1. Repeated practice to perfection. 2. Study over several days gives better retention than “cramming.”
3. Automaticity means practicing the recall of fundamentals and stepwise procedures (algorithms) until they
can be recalled quickly and automatically. Automaticity overcomes limits in human working memory.
Practice B
1. 1 micrometer = 10─6 meters 1 meter = 106 micrometers

1 gigawatt = 109 watts 1 watt = 10─9 gigawatts

1 nanoliter = 10─9 liters 109 nanoliters = 1 liter

2. a. 1 picocurie = 10─12 curies b. 1 megawatt = 106 watts c. 1 dag = 101 g

d. 1 mole = 103 millimoles e. 1 m = 109 nm f. 1 kPa = 103 Pa
3. a. 10─6/10─8 = 10─6 + 8 = 102 b. 1/5 = 0.20 c. 1/50 = 0.020
* * * * *
Lesson 2D: Calculations With Units
Pretest: If you can do the following two problems correctly, you may skip this lesson.
Answers are at the end of the lesson. Answer Q1 (black ink) in your notebook.
1. Find the volume of a sphere that is 4.0 cm in diameter. (Vsphere = 4/3 r3 ).
2. Multiply: 2.0 g • m • 3.0 m • 6.0 x 102 s =
s2 4.0 x 10─2
* * * * *
(Except as noted, do the following lesson without a calculator,.)
Adding and Subtracting With Units
In science, calculations are nearly always based on measurements of physical quantities. A
measurement consists of a numeric value and its unit.
When doing calculations in science, it is essential to write the unit after the numbers during
both measurements and calculations. Why?
 Units give physical meaning to a quantity.
 Units are the best indicators of what steps are needed to solve problems, and
 Units provide a check that you have done a calculation correctly.

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When solving calculations, the math must take into account both the numbers and their
units. Use the following three rules.

Rule 1. When adding or subtracting, the units must be the same in the quantities being
added and subtracted, and those same units must be added to the answer.

Rule 1 is logical. Apply it to these two examples.

A. 5 apples + 2 apples = _________ B. 5 apples + 2 oranges = __________
* * * * *
The example A answer is 7 apples. In example B, you can’t add apples and oranges. By
Rule 1, you can add numbers that have the same units, but you cannot add numbers
directly that do not have the same units.
Apply Rule 1 to this problem: 14.0 grams
─ 7.5 grams
* * * * *
14.0 grams
─ 7.5 grams If the units are all the same, you can add or subtract numbers,
6.5 grams but you must add the common unit to the answer.
Multiplying and Dividing With Units
The rules for multiplying and dividing with units is different, but logical.

Rule 2. When multiplying and dividing units, the units multiply and divide.
Rule 3. When multiplying and dividing, separate the numbers, exponentials, and units.
Solve the three parts separately, then recombine the terms.

Apply Rules 2 and 3 to this problem: If a postage stamp has the

dimensions 2.0 cm x 3.0 cm, the surface area of one side of the stamp = ____________
* * * * *
Area of a rectangle = l x w =
= 2.0 cm x 4.0 cm = (2.0 x 3.0) x (cm x cm) = 6.0 cm2 = 6.0 square centimeters
Apply Rules 2 and 3 to these. Solve without a calculator.

a. 12 x 10─3 m4 =
3.0 x 102 m2
b. 9.0 x 103 m6 =
3.0 x 10─2 m6
* * * * *
a. 12 • 10─3 • m4 = 4.0 x 10─5 m2 b. 9.0 x 103 m6 = 3.0 x 105
3.0 • 102 • m2 3.0 x 10─2 m6 (with no unit.)

In science, the unit math must be done, and a calculated unit must be included as part of
answers (except in rare cases such as part b above, when all of the units cancel).

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If multiple units are part of a calculation, the math for each unit is done separately.
When solving calculations, you often need to use a calculator to do the number math, but
both the exponential and unit math nearly always can (and should) be done without a
calculator. On this problem, use a calculator for the numbers. Do the exponential and
unit math on paper but using mental arithmetic.
Q. Simplify: 4.8 g • m • 3.0 m • 6.0 s =
s 2 ─4
9.0 x 10 m 2
* * * * *
A. Do the math for numbers, exponentials, and then each unit separately.
= 86.4 • 1 • g •m •m • s = 9.6 x 104 g
9.0 10 ─4 s •s m2 s

This answer unit can also be written as g • s─1 , but you will find it helpful to use
the x/y unit format until we work with mathematical equations later in the course.

Practice: Do not use a calculator, except as noted. If you need just a few reminders, do
Problems 7 and 9. If you need more practice, do more. After completing each problem,
check your answer. If you miss a problem, review the rules to figure out why before
continuing.
1. 16 cm ─ 2 cm = 2. 12 cm • 2 cm2 =
3. 3.0 g / 9.0 g = 4. 18.0 s─5 =
3.0 s2
5. 24 L5 = 6. 18 x 10─3 g • m5 =
3.0 L ─4 3.0 x 101 m2

7. 12 x 10─2 L • g • 2.0 m • 2.0 s3 =

s 6.0 x 10─5 L2
8. A rectangular box has dimensions of 2.0 cm x 4.0 cm x 6.0 cm. Without a calculator,
calculate its volume.
9. In the Pretest at the beginning of this lesson, complete
a. Problem 1 (use a calculator). b. Problem 2 (do not use a calculator).

ANSWERS Both the number and the unit must be written and correct.
Pretest: See answers to Problems 9a and 9b below.
1. 14 cm 2. 24 cm3 3. 0.33 (no unit) 4. 6.0 s─7 5. 8.0 L9 6. 6.0 x 10─4 g • m3
7. 8.0 x 103 g • m • s2 8. Vrectangular solid = length times width times height = 48 cm3
L

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 Module 2 – The Metric System

9a. Diameter = 4.0 cm, radius = 2.0 cm.

Vsphere = 4/3 r3 = 4/3  (2.0 cm)3 = 4/3 (8.0 cm3) = (32/3)  cm3 = 33.51 cm3 = 34 cm3
(If you use  = 3.14 , your answer will be 33.49 cm3 = 33 cm3. That’s OK. Doubful digits may vary.)
9b. (2.0)(3.0)(6.0) • 104 • g • m • m • s = 9.0 x 104 g • m2
4.0 s2 s
* * * * *

SUMMARY – The Metric System

1. 1 meter ≡ 10 decimeters Prefix Abbreviation Means
≡ 100 centimeters
tera- T x 1012
≡ 1000 millimeters
giga- G x 109
1,000 meters ≡ 1 kilometer
mega- M x 106
2. 1 millimeter ≡ 1 mm = 10─3 meter
kilo- k x 103
1 centimeter ≡ 1 cm = 10─2 meter
hecto- h x 102
1 decimeter ≡ 1 dm = 10─1 meter
deka- da x 101
1 kilometer ≡ 1 km = 103 meter
deci- d x 10―1
3. Any unit can be substituted for meter above.
centi- c x 10―2
4. 1 cm3 ≡ 1 mL ≡ 1 cc
milli- m x 10―3
5. 1 liter ≡ 1000 mL ≡ 1 dm3
micro- μ (mu) or u x 10―6
6. 1 cm3 H2O(l) ≡ 1 mL H2O(l) ≈ 1.00 g H2O(l) nano- n x 10―9
7. meter = m ; gram = g ; second = s pico- p x 10―12
8. If prefix- = 10a , 1 unit = 10─a prefix-units femto- f- x 10―15
9. To change a prefix definition from a “1 prefix-
unit = “ format to a “1 base unit = “ format, change the exponent sign.
10. Rules for units in calculations:
a. When adding or subtracting, the units must be the same in the numbers being added
and subtracted, and those same units must be added to the answer.
b. When multiplying and dividing units, the units multiply and divide.
c. When multiplying and dividing, group the numbers, exponentials, and units
separately. Solve the separate parts, then recombine the terms.
# # # # #

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Module 1 – Scientific Notation

From Text Page 3 (Lesson 1A)
Pretest:
1. Write these in scientific notation.
a. 9,400 x 103 = b. 0.042 x 106 =

c. ─ 0.0067 x 10―2 = d. ─ 77 =

2. Write these answers in fixed-decimal notation.

a. 14/10,000 = b. 0.194 x 1000 = c. 470=

Page 4 (Lesson 1A):

Practice A: Write your answers, then check them at the end of this lesson.
1. (Rule 1) Write these as fixed-decimal numbers without an exponential term.
a. 107 = b. 10―5 = c. 100 =

2. (Rule 2) When dividing by 10,000 move the decimal to the _______________ by _____
places.
3. (Rule 2) Write these answers as fixed-decimal numbers.
a. 0.42 x 1000 = b. 63/100 =

c. ─ 74.6/10,000 =

4. (Rule 4) Convert these values to fixed-decimal notation.

a. 3 x 103 = b. 5.5 x 10―4 =

c. 0.77 x 106 = d. ─ 95 x 10―4 =

Page 6 (Lesson 1A):

Practice B:
1. Convert these values to scientific notation.

a. 5,420 x 103 = b. 0.0067 x 10―4 =

c. 0.00492 x 10―12 = d. ─ 602 x 1021 =

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2. Which lettered parts in Problem 3 below must have powers of 10 that are negative
when written in scientific notation?
3. Write these in scientific notation.

a. 6,280 = b. 0.0093 =

c. 0.741 = d. ─ 1,280,000 =

4. Complete the problems in the pretest at the beginning of this lesson.

Page 7 (Lesson 1A):

Practice C: Check () and do every other letter. If you miss one, do another letter for
that set. Save a few parts for your next study session.
1. Write these answers in fixed-decimal notation.
a. 924/10,000 = b. 24.3 x 1000 =

c. ─ 0.024/10 =

2. Convert to scientific notation.

a. 0.55 x 105 b. 0.0092 x 100

c. 940 x 10―6 d. 0.00032 x 10

3. Write these numbers in scientific notation.

a. 7,700 b. 160,000,000

c. 0.023 d. 0.00067

Page 8 (Lesson 1B):

Pretest: Do not use a calculator. Convert your final answers to scientific notation.
1. (2.0 x 10―4) (6.0 x 1023) =

2. 1023 =
(100)(3.0 x 10―8)

3. (─ 6.0 x 10―18) ─ (─ 2.89 x 10―16) =

Page 9 (Lesson 1B):

Q. ( 32.464 x 101 ) ─ (16.2 x 10―1 ) = ?

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Page 9 (Lesson 1B):

Let’s do problem 1 again. This time, first convert each value to fixed-decimal numbers, then
do the arithmetic. Convert the final answer to scientific notation.
32.464 x 101 =
─ 16.2 x 10―1 =

Page 9 (Lesson 1B):

Practice A: Try these without a calculator. On these, don’t round. Do convert final
answers to scientific notation. Do the odds first, then the evens if you need more practice.
1. 64.202 x 1023
+ 13.2 x 1021

2. (61 x 10―7) + (2.25 x 10―5) + (212.0 x 10―6) =

3. ( ― 54 x 10―20 ) + ( ― 2.18 x 10―18 ) =

4. ( ― 21.46 x 10―17 ) ― ( ― 3,250 x 10―19 ) =

Page 10 (Lesson 1B):

Q. Without using a calculator, simplify the top, then the bottom, then divide.
10―3 x 10―4 = =
105 x 10―8

Page 10 (Lesson 1B):

Practice B: Write answers as 10 to a power. Do not use a calculator. Do the odds first,
then the evens if you need more practice.
1. 1/1023 = 2. 10―5 x 10―6 =

3. 1 = 4. 10―3 =
1/10―4 105

Page 11 (Lesson 1B):

5. 103 x 10―6 = 6. 105 x 1023 =
10―2 x 10―4 10―1 x 10―6

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7. 100 x 10―2 = 8. 10―3 x 1023 =

1,000 x 106 10 x 1,000

Page 11 (Lesson 1B):

Apply rule 1 to the following three problems.
a. Do not use a calculator: (2 x 103) (4 x 1023) =

b. Do the significand math on a calculator but try the exponential math in your
head for (2.4 x 10―3) (3.5 x 1023) =

c. Do significand math on a calculator but exponential math without a calculator.

6.5 x 1023 =
4.1 x 10―8

Page 12:
Apply Rule 2 to the following problem. Do not use a calculator.
10―14 =
2.0 x 10―8

Page 12:
Practice C
1. (2.0 x 101) (6.0 x 1023) = 2. (5.0 x 10―3) (1.5 x 1015) =

3. 3.0 x 10―21 = 4. 6.0 x 10―23 =

― 2.0 x 103 2.0 x 10―4

5. 10―14 = 6. 1014 =
― 5.0 x 10―3 4.0 x 10―4

7. Complete the problems in the pretest at the beginning of this lesson.

Page 13 (Lesson 1B):

Practice D
Start by doing every other letter. If you get those right, go to the next number. If not, do a
few more of that number. Save one part of each question for your next study session.
1. Try these without a calculator. Convert your final answers to scientific notation.

a. 10―2 x (6.0 x 1023) =

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 Module 1 – Scientific Notation
_________________________________________________________________________________________________

b. (― 0.5 x 10―2)(6.0 x 1023) =

c. 3.0 x 1024 =
6.0 x 1023

d. 1 =
5.0 x 1023

e. 1.0 x 10―14
4.0 x 10―5

f. 1010 =
2.0 x 10―5
2. Use a calculator for the numbers but not for the exponents.
a. 2.46 x 1019 =
6.0 x 1023

b. 10―14 =
0.0072

3. Do not use a calculator. Write answers as a power of 10.

a. 107 x 10―2 =
10 x 10―5

b. 10―23 x 10―5 =
10―5 x 100

4. Convert to scientific notation in the final answer. Do not round during these.
a. ( 74 x 105 ) + ( 4.09 x 107 ) =

b. ( 5.122 x 10―9 ) ― ( ― 12,914 x 10―12 ) =

Page 14 (Lesson 1C):

Pretest: If you can solve both problems of these problems correctly, skip this lesson.
Convert final answers to scientific notation. Check your answers at the end of this lesson.
1. Solve without (10―9)(1015) =
a calculator. (4 x 10―4)(2 x 10―2)

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2. Use a calculator for the numbers, but solve the exponentials by mental arithmetic.
(3.15 x 103)(4.0 x 10―24) =
(2.6 x 10―2)(5.5 x 10―5)

Page 17 (Lesson 1C):

Then try these next three without a calculator. Convert final answers to scientific notation.
Round the significand in the answer to two digits.
1. 4 x 103 =
(2.00)(3.0 x 107)

2. 1 =
(4.0 x 109)(2.0 x 103)

3. (3 x 10―3)(8.0 x 10―5) =
(6.0 x 1011)(2.0 x 10―3)

4. (3.62 x 104)(6.3 x 10―10) =

(4.2 x 10―4)(9.8 x 10―5)

5. 10―2 =
(750)(2.8 x 10―15 )

6. (1.6 x 10―3)(4.49 x 10―5) =

(2.1 x 103)(8.2 x 106)

7. 1 =
(4.9 x 10―2)(7.2 x 10―5)

8. For additional practice, do the two Pretest problems at the beginning of this lesson.
# # # #

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 Module 2 – The Metric System
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Module 2 – The Metric System

Page 20 (Lesson 2A):
Pretest: Write answers to these, then check your answers at the end of Lesson 2A.
1. What is the mass, in kilograms, of 150 cm3 of liquid water?

2. How many cm3 are in a liter? 3. How many dm3 are in a liter?

4. 2.5 pascals is how many millipascals? 5. 3,500 cg is how many kg?

Page 21 (Lesson 2A):

Practice A: Write Rules 1 and 2 until you can do so from memory. Learn Rule 3.
Then complete these problems without looking back at the rules.
1. From memory, add exponential terms to these blanks.

a. 1 millimeter = ______meters b. 1 deciliter = _______ liter

2. From memory, add full metric prefixes to these blanks.

a. 1000 grams = 1 _________gram b. 10―2 liters = 1 ___________liter

Page 23 (Lesson 2A):

Practice B: Write Rules 1 through 6 until you can do so from memory. Learn the unit
and prefix abbreviations as well. Then complete the following problems without looking
back at the lesson above.
1. Fill in the prefix abbreviations: 1 m = 10 ____m = 100 ____m = 1000 ____m
2. From memory, add metric prefix abbreviations to the following blanks.
a. 103 g = 1 ____g b. 10―3 s = 1 ___s
3. From memory, add fixed-decimal numbers to these blanks.

a. 1000 cm3 = _________ mL b. 100 cm3 H2O(l) ≈ _______ grams H2O (l)

4. Add fixed-decimal numbers: 1 liter ≡ ________ mL ≡ _______ cm3 ≡ ________ dm3

Page 25 (Lesson 2A):

Practice C: Study the 7 rules in the Metric Basics table above, then write the table on
paper from memory. Repeat until you can write all parts of the table from memory. Then
cement your knowledge by answering these questions.
1. In your mind, picture a kilometer and a millimeter. Which is larger?
2. Which is larger, a kilojoule or a millijoule?
3. Name four units that can be used to measure volume in the metric system.

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4. How many liters are in a kiloliter?

5. What is the mass of 15 milliliters of liquid water?

6. One liter of liquid water has what mass in grams?

7. What is the volume of one gram of ice?

Page 26 (Lesson 2B):

Q1. From memory, fill in these blanks with prefixes (do not abbreviate).

a. 103 grams = 1 _________gram b. 2 x 10―3 meters = 2 ________ meters

Q2. From memory, fill in these blanks with prefix abbreviations.

a. 2.6 x 10―1 L = 2.6 ____L b. 6 x 10―2 g = 6 ____g

Q3. Fill in these blanks with exponential terms (use the table above if needed).

a. 1 gigajoule = 1 x _______ joules b. 9 μm = 9 x ________ m

Page 27 (Lesson 2B):

Practice A: Use a sticky note to mark the answer page at the end of this lesson.
1. From memory, add exponential terms to these blanks.

a. 7 microseconds = 7 x ______ seconds b. 9 fg = 9 x ________ g

c. 8 cm = 8 x ________ m d. 1 ng = 1 x ________ g

2. From memory, add full metric prefixes to these blanks.

a. 6 x 10─2 amps = 6 ____________ amps b. 45 x 109 watts = 45 ________watts

3. From memory, add prefix abbreviations to these blanks.

a. 1012 g = 1 ____g b. 10―12 s = 1 ___s c. 5 x 10─1 L = 5 ____ L

4. When writing prefix abbreviations by hand, write so that you can distinguish between

(add a prefix abbreviation) 5 x 10─3 g = 5 ____g and 5 x 106 g = 5 ____g

5. For which prefix abbreviations is the first letter always capitalized?

6. Write 0.30 gigameters/second without a prefix, in scientific notation.

Page 29 (Lesson 2B):

Fill in these blanks with exponential terms.

Q1. 1 nanogram = 1 x ______ grams , so 1 gram = 1 x ______ nanograms

Q2. 1 dL = 1 x ______ liters , so 1 L = 1 x ______ dL

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 Module 2 – The Metric System
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Page 29 (Lesson 2B):

Practice B: Write the table of the 13 metric prefixes until you can do so from memory,
then try to do these without consulting the table.
1. Fill in the blanks with exponential terms.

a. 1 terasecond = 1 x ______ seconds , so 1 second = 1 x ______ teraseconds

b. 1 µg = 1 x ______ grams , so 1 g = 1 x ______ µg

2. Apply the reciprocal rule to add exponential terms to these one unit equalities.

a. 1 gram = _______ centigrams b. 1 meter = ___________ picometers

c. 1 s = ___________ ms d. 1 s = ___________ Ms
3. Add exponential terms to these blanks. Watch where the 1 is!

a. 1 micromole = _____ moles b. 1 g = 1 x _______ Gg

c. 1 hectogram = 1 x _______ grams d. f. 1 fL = ________ L

Page 33 (Lesson 2C):

Front-side of cards (with notch at top right): Back Side -- Answers
To convert to scientific notation, move the decimal
After the first number that is not a zero
to…
If you make the significand larger Make the exponent smaller
420 Any number to the zero power = 1
To add or subtract in exponential notation Make all exponents the same
Simplify 1/(1/X) X
To divide exponentials (with the same base) Subtract the exponents
To bring an exponent from the bottom of a fraction
Change its sign
to the top
1 cc ≡ 1 ___ ≡ 1 ___ 1 cc ≡ 1 cm3 ≡ 1 mL
0.0018 in scientific notation = 1.8 x 10─3
1 L ≡ ___ mL ≡ ___ dm3 1 L ≡ 1000 mL ≡ 1 dm3
To multiply exponentials (that have the same base) Add the exponents
Simplify 1/10x 10─x
74 in scientific notation = 7.4 x 101
The original definition of 1 gram The mass of 1 cm3 of liquid water at 4ºC.
8x7= 56
42/6 = 7

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 Module 2 – The Metric System
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Page 34 (Lesson 2C):

Two-way cards (without a notch):

103 g or 1,000 g = 1 __g 1 kg = ____ g

Boiling temperature of water 100 degrees Celsius -- if 1 atm. pressure
1 nanometer = 1 x ___ meters 1 ____meter = 1 x 10─9 meters
Freezing temperature of water 0 degrees Celsius
4.7 x10─3 = ______________(number) 0.0047 = 4.7 x10?

1 GHz =10? Hz 109 Hz = 1 __Hz 2/3 = 0.? 0.666… = ? / ?

1 pL = 10? L 10─12 L = 1 __L 1/80 = 0.? 0.0125 = 1 / ?

3/4 = 0.? 0.75 = ? / ? 1 dm3 = 1 ___ 1 L = 1 __
1/8 = 0.? 0.125 = 1 / ? 1/4 = 0.? 0.25 = 1 / ?

More two-way cards (without a notch) for the metric-prefix definitions.

mega- = x 10? x 106 = ? Prefix d- = x 10? x 10─1 = ? abbr. micro =? abbr. µ- = ? pref.

nano- = x 10? x 10─9 = ? pref. m- = x 10? x 10─3 = ? abbr. mega =? abbr. M = ? pref.

giga- = x 10? x 109 = ? Prefix T- = x 10? x 1012 = ? abbr. deka =? abbr. da = ? pref.

micro- = x 10? x 10─6 = ? pref. n- = x 10? x 10─9 = ? abbr. pico =? abbr. p = ? prefix

deci- = x 10? x 10─1 = ? pref. f- = x 10? x 10─15 = ? abb deci =? abbr. d = ? prefix

tera- = x 10? x 1012 = ? pref. µ- = x 10? x 10─6 = ? abbr. hecto =? abbr. h = ? prefix

pico- = x 10? x 10─12 = ? pref G- = x 10? x 109 = ? abbr. tera =? abbr. T = ? prefix

hecto- = x 10? x 102 = ? Prefix da- = x 10? x 101 = ? abbr. milli =? abbr. m = ? pref.

deka- = x 10? x 101 = ? Prefix p- = x 10? x 10─12 = ? abb femto =? abbr. f = ? prefix

femto- = x 10? x 10─15 = ? pref c- = x 10? x 10─2 = ? abbr. giga =? abbr. G = ? pref.

M- = x 10? x 106 = ? abbr. h- = x 10? x 102 = ? abbr. nano =? abbr. n = ? prefix

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Page 35 (Lesson 2C):

Practice B: Run your set of flashcards until all cards are in the “got-it” pile. Then try
these problems. Make additional cards if needed. Run the cards again in a day or two.
1. Fill in the blanks.

Format: 1 prefix- 1 base unit

1 micrometer = _______ meters 1 meter = _______ micrometers

1 gigawatt = _______ watts 1 watt = ________ gigawatts

1 nanoliter = ________ liter ________ nanoliters = 1 liter

2. Add exponential terms to these blanks. Watch where the 1 is!

a. 1 picocurie = ___________ curies b. 1 megawatt = ___________watts

c. 1 dag = ____________ g d. 1 mole = ___________ millimoles

e. 1 m = ___________ nm f. 1 kPa = ____________ Pa

3. Answer these without using a calculator.
a. 10─6/10─8 = b. 1/5 = ___.___ ___ c. 1/50 = ___.___ ___ ___

Page 36 (Lesson 2D):

2. Multiply: 2.0 g • m • 3.0 m • 6.0 x 102 s =
s2 4.0 x 10─2

Page 36 (Lesson 2D):

A. 5 apples + 2 apples = _________ B. 5 apples + 2 oranges = __________

Page 37 (Lesson 2D):

Apply Rule 1 to this problem: 14.0 grams
─ 7.5 grams

* * * * *
Apply Rules 2 and 3 to this problem: If a postage stamp has the
dimensions 2.0 cm x 3.0 cm, the surface area of one side of the stamp = ____________

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 Module 2 – The Metric System
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Page 37 (Lesson 2D):

Apply Rules 2 and 3 to these. Solve without a calculator.

a. 12 x 10─3 m4 =
3.0 x 102 m2

b. 9.0 x 103 m6 =
3.0 x 10─2 m6

Page 38 (Lesson 2D):

Practice: Do not use a calculator, except as noted.
1. 16 cm ─ 2 cm =

2. 12 cm • 2 cm2 =

3. 3.0 g / 9.0 g =

4. 18.0 s─5 =
3.0 s2

5. 24 L5 =
3.0 L─4

6. 18 x 10─3 g • m5 =
3.0 x 101 m2

7. 12 x 10─2 L • g • 2.0 m • 2.0 s3 =

s 6.0 x 10─5 L2

8. A rectangular box has dimensions of 2.0 cm x 4.0 cm x 6.0 cm. Without a calculator,
calculate its volume.

9. In the Pretest at the beginning of this lesson, complete

a. Problem 1 (use a calculator). b. Problem 2 (do not use a calculator).
# # # # #

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