Answer
In arranging scientific notations in the form $ a \times 10^{n}$, the more important thing to consider is the value of $n$. The value of $n$ will tell us how big or how small the number is because this dictates the number of places that the decimal point will move.
For example, compare $1.2\times10^{3}$ and $1.1\times10^{4}$.
Looking at the value of $n$, we know for a fact that $1.1\times10^{4}$ is larger than $1.2\times10^{3}$ even though its $a$ value ($1.1$) is less than that of the other expression ($1.2$).
To verify, convert them in decimal notation.
$1.2\times10^{3} = 1200$
$1.1\times10^{4} = 11000$
Work Step by Step
In arranging scientific notations in the form $ a \times 10^{n}$, the more important thing to consider is the value of $n$. The value of $n$ will tell us how big or how small the number is because this dictates the number of places that the decimal point will move.
For example, compare $1.2\times10^{3}$ and $1.1\times10^{4}$.
Looking at the value of $n$, we know for a fact that $1.1\times10^{4}$ is larger than $1.2\times10^{3}$ even though its $a$ value ($1.1$) is less than that of the other expression ($1.2$).
To verify, convert them in decimal notation.
$1.2\times10^{3} = 1200$
$1.1\times10^{4} = 11000$
