How do you calculate 3 multiplied by 100 using the rules for multiplication by powers of 10?

To calculate 3 x 100 using the rules for multiplication by powers of 10, we can first recognize that 100 is a power of 10. In fact, 100 can be expressed as 10², since it represents 10 multiplied by itself.

Now, when we multiply a number by a power of 10, we can simply shift the decimal point of the number to the right by as many places as the exponent indicates. For example:

• The number 3 has a decimal point after it, which is typically written as 3.0.
• Since we are multiplying by 10², we shift the decimal point 2 places to the right.

Moving the decimal point 2 places to the right changes 3.0 to 300.0, which is simply 300.

So, 3 x 100 = 300.

This technique not only makes the calculation straightforward but also demonstrates how multiplication by powers of 10 can significantly simplify numerical operations. In summary, the multiplication can be quickly visualized and executed by using the decimal point shift rule!