Expert: James Gort - 8/17/2011

Question
Dear expert:
My basic question is if it okay to write scientific notstion without using superscripts. For example can I write: The universe experienced an increase in size by a factor of 10x56 during it's early inflation instead of writing the number 56 as a superscript? also, can I wrote the statement: the early period of cosmic infalation lasted a 10x-30 second instead of using a superscript? The reason why I ask is because I write articles for the local astronomy club I belong to and the editor so far has not been able to place my original figures in which I used supercripts in their original form in the club's publication.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Randy,

There are basically three ways that I know of. But there should be a footnote or other explanation in your club's publication to explain it - so everyone understands the notation.

The notation used on my HP scientific calculator is:  4.5x10(exp)13 light years = 4.5E+13 ly.  On the other end of the distance scale, 4.5x10(exp)-13 m = 4.5E-13 m.

I've also seen the "carrot" symbol used. So the above would be 4.5x10^13 ly.

Alternatively, computer programs often use the asterisk. One asterisk means multiplies by, while two asterisks mean to the power of. So the above would be 4.5*10**13 ly.

I think all are acceptable, given an explanation for the reader. Personally, I like the first one.

Hope that helps.

Cheers,

Prof. James Gort

P.S., When I got my reply, the "carrot" symbol was transformed (by the software) to a superscript! So I wanted to clarify:  In the second case, the above would be 4.5x10"^"13 ly. I put the carrot in quotes to prevent its being used by the software to convert it to a superscript.