When is it best to use scientific notation?

Using scientific notation is particularly advantageous when dealing with numbers that span several orders of magnitude. This format condenses large or small values into a more manageable form, making it easier to read, interpret, and perform calculations. For example, astronomical distances or microscopic measurements often involve extremely large or small numbers; expressing them in scientific notation allows for clarity and prevents errors that could arise from misplacing decimal points.

In contexts where values range widely—such as in physics, chemistry, or any scientific discipline—it becomes essential to communicate these values succinctly. Scientific notation effectively conveys both the magnitude and the precision of the measurement, enhancing comprehension in situations where conventional numeric formats may fail to provide the same level of clarity.