Question: For each part below, estimate the number using scientific notation.
Write your answer as a single digit times a power of ten.
(a) The diameter of a planet at its equator is 2950 kilometers.
Estimate using scientific notation:
(b) A telescope is able to detect radiation with a wavelength of 0.000627 meters.
Estimate using scientific notation:
1. **Problem statement:**
(a) Estimate the diameter of a planet, 2950 kilometers, in scientific notation.
(b) Estimate the wavelength 0.000627 meters in scientific notation.
2. **Scientific notation form:**
A number is expressed as $$a \times 10^n$$ where $1 \leq a < 10$ and $n$ is an integer.
3. **Part (a) calculation:**
- The number is 2950.
- Move the decimal point 3 places left to get 2.950.
- So, $$2950 = 2.95 \times 10^3$$.
4. **Part (b) calculation:**
- The number is 0.000627.
- Move the decimal point 4 places right to get 6.27.
- So, $$0.000627 = 6.27 \times 10^{-4}$$.
5. **Final answers:**
(a) $$2.95 \times 10^3$$
(b) $$6.27 \times 10^{-4}$$