Module 1 – Scientific Notation – Optional Tutorial

Caution:
Before you start this experiment, understand that you are expected to follow directions EXPLICITLY! Take your time and read the directions for each step and for each part of the experiment. You will be required to answer questions in WebAssign in a particular format.

For a printer-friendly version of these instructions, click the Print button in the upper-right corner of this page.

Simulation

Use the Scientific Notation and Significant Figures links to access the simulations that will be used to do this experiment (iPhysics, Scientific Notation; iPhysics, Significant Figures). (NOTE: These sites require Java to operate. You may have to add the website URL as an exception to Java (Java control panel > Security > Exceptions) in order for it to function properly.)

Part I: Practicing with Scientific Notation

Scientific notation can be fun. The simulation linked below will allow you to practice identifying the mantissa and exponent for numbers in scientific notation.

Select the link to the Scientific Notation simulation.

Convert the number given to scientific notation.

Select the "Check my answer" button.

If you are not correct, read the feedback.

Now select the "New problem" button.

When you have mastered converting to scientific notation, close that window/tab to return to this page.

Part II: Significant Figures

The simulation linked below will allow you to practice the significant figure rules.

Select the link to the Significant Figures simulation.

Click on the "New Number" button.

Type in your answer.

Click on the "Check Answer" button.

Determine if you are correct or not. If not, use the significant figure rules to help you decide why you missed the question.

Repeat until you are able to get the correct answer at least eight times in a row.