Multiplying Whole Numbers by Powers of 10
Multiplying whole numbers by powers of 10 is a Grade 5 place value skill in enVision Mathematics, Chapter 1: Understand Place Value. The rule is simple: annex as many zeros to the whole number as the exponent value, for example 34 × 10^2 = 3,400. Mastering this concept is foundational for understanding decimal place value and mental math with large numbers.
Key Concepts
To multiply a whole number by a power of 10, annex (add) the same number of zeros to the end of the whole number as the value of the exponent.
Common Questions
How do you multiply a whole number by a power of 10?
Add zeros to the end of the whole number equal to the exponent. For example, 45 × 10^3 = 45,000 because you annex 3 zeros.
What happens to place value when you multiply by 10?
Each digit shifts one place to the left for every factor of 10, increasing the value by a power of 10.
What is 56 × 100?
56 × 100 = 5,600. Since 100 = 10^2, you annex 2 zeros to 56.
Where is multiplying by powers of 10 taught in enVision Grade 5?
This skill is in Chapter 1: Understand Place Value in enVision Mathematics, Grade 5.
Why is multiplying by powers of 10 important in 5th grade math?
It builds understanding of place value relationships and decimal operations, and supports mental math strategies for multiplication and division of larger numbers.