Which shows the expression below simplified?
(3.6 × 10^15) + (1.8 × 10^12)
a. 3.60018 × 10^15
b. 3.902 × 10^14
c. 3.618 × 10^15
d. 3.6018 × 10^15
To simplify the expression (3.6 × 10^15) + (1.8 × 10^12), we need to add the numbers in front of the exponent and keep the exponent the same. Here's how you can do it:
Step 1: Add the numbers in front of the exponent:
3.6 + 1.8 = 5.4
Step 2: Keep the exponent the same:
The exponent is 15 for both terms.
Step 3: Write the simplified expression in scientific notation:
5.4 × 10^15
Therefore, the simplified expression for (3.6 × 10^15) + (1.8 × 10^12) is 5.4 × 10^15.
None of the given answer choices match this simplified expression, so none of options a, b, c, and d are correct.