Write whole numbers in expanded notation

Whole numbers are represented in expanded notation as the sum of each digit’s place-value contribution, such as $40{,}000+600+3$ for $40{,}603$ , with powers of ten providing a generalized form such as $4\times10^4+6\times10^2+3\times10^0$ . This understanding includes zero as a placeholder for empty places and supports accurate comparison, computation, and later work with exponents; it is limited to whole numbers, not decimals, fractions, negative numbers, or scientific notation.

Detailed Explanation: Write whole numbers in expanded notation

Expanded notation shows the value of each digit in a whole number. To write a number this way:

Identify each digit’s place value.
Multiply each digit by its place value.
Add the nonzero place-value contributions.

Example: Write $508{,}204$ in expanded notation.

First, identify the value of each digit:

$5$ is in the hundred-thousands place: $500{,}000$
$0$ is in the ten-thousands place: $0$
$8$ is in the thousands place: $8{,}000$
$2$ is in the hundreds place: $200$
$0$ is in the tens place: $0$
$4$ is in the ones place: $4$

The zeros are placeholders. They show that there are no ten-thousands or tens in the number.

Now write the sum of the place-value contributions:

508{,}204=500{,}000+8{,}000+200+4

You can also write this using powers of $10$ :

508{,}204 =5\times10^5+8\times10^3+2\times10^2+4\times10^0

The terms with zero digits are left out because they add $0$ .

Learn by doing: Write whole numbers in expanded notation

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Place Value - Normal to Expanded Form (Numbers)

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