Place the numbers in descending order.
2.3 × 10^−10 ; 3.2 × 10^−10 ; 2.3 × 10^−12 ; 2.3 × 10^−8
(2 points) CHOOSE ONLY 4
3.2 × 10^−10 ; 2.3 × 10^−10 ; 2.3 × 10^−8 ; 2.3 × 10^−12
To place the numbers in descending order, we compare the exponents first.
The exponents are -10, -10, -12, and -8.
The larger the negative exponent, the smaller the number. So, the number with the largest negative exponent would be the smallest number in this case.
In descending order, the numbers are:
3.2 × 10^−10; 2.3 × 10^−10; 2.3 × 10^−12; 2.3 × 10^−8
To place the numbers in descending order, we need to compare the values of the numbers. In this case, we are given numbers in scientific notation, which consists of a decimal number (coefficient) multiplied by a power of 10 (exponent).
To compare the values, focus on the coefficient part of each number. Alternatively, you can convert the numbers to their usual decimal form:
2.3 × 10^−10 = 0.00000000023
3.2 × 10^−10 = 0.00000000032
2.3 × 10^−12 = 0.0000000000023
2.3 × 10^−8 = 0.000000023
Now, let's compare the decimals:
0.000000023 > 0.00000000032 > 0.00000000023 > 0.0000000000023
Hence, the correct descending order is:
2.3 × 10^−8 ; 3.2 × 10^−10 ; 2.3 × 10^−10 ; 2.3 × 10^−12