What E notation means
6.02e23 = 6.02 × 10^23
The letter e inside a number is an entry shortcut for a power of ten. It is different from the mathematical constant e when it follows digits as part of a number.
Worked example
Calculate half of Avogadro-scale quantity 6.02 × 10²³.
6.02e23 / 2 = 3.01e23
- Enter
6.02e23/2. - Set the result format to SCI if you want exponential output.
- Press = and interpret the exponent separately from the coefficient.
Multiplication rule
When multiplying scientific notation by hand, multiply coefficients and add exponents. The calculator performs the same arithmetic automatically.
(3e4)(2e-6) = 6e-2 = 0.06
Common mistake
Do not type 6.02 × e × 23. That uses the constant e and ordinary multiplication, which is a different expression.
Practice
Evaluate (4.5 × 10⁻³)(2 × 10⁵).
Show answer
4.5e-3*2e5 = 900.
Try the method now
Open the calculator in a separate tab and reproduce the worked example.
Related guides
Reviewed July 17, 2026.