Question:  How do I type exponents into my scientific calculator?  I've never used a scientific calculator before and I am not sure if I am putting my calculations in correctly. Here is an example of what I'm working on: 5.98 x 10²⁴  How do put that in? And what if it is a negative power?

Answer:  If you have one of the Ti-83 type graphing calculators, do the following to type in exponents:

• Type the number that goes before the "x 10²⁴ part."  In your example, it would be "5.98"
• Hit the yellow button that says "2nd" on the top left of your calculator.  Your calculator should now say "5.98" with an up arrow after it.
• Hit the "," button above the seven.  You should now see "5.98E" on the screen.
• Type in the number of the exponent you want.  In your case, you want to type in "24".  When you do this, you should see "5.98E24".  To your calculator, this means the number you were looking for.
• If you want to indicate a negative exponent, hit the (-) button on the bottom row of your calculator between steps three and four.  If you were trying to find 5.98 x 10^-24, your calculator should say "5.98E-24".

• Type in "5.98"
• Hit the button that says "E" or "EE" on it.
• Type the number of the exponent.  In your case, 24.  You should see "5.98" with "24" next to it in smaller type.
• To get a negative exponent, hit the "+/-" or "(-)" button on the bottom row of the calculator.