What is a centillion? 1 × 10^63 1 × 10^303 Infinite numbers
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answer: 1 × 10^303
A centillion is a large number that differs slightly depending on whether the American or British numbering system is being used. In the American system, which is commonly used in scientific and mathematical contexts, a centillion is equal to 1 followed by 303 zeros, or 1 × 10^303. In contrast, in the British system, a centillion is even larger — it is 1 followed by 600 zeros, or 1 × 10^600. However, unless stated otherwise, the American system is generally assumed.
To break it down, the naming of large numbers such as million, billion, trillion, and so on follows a pattern. In the American system:
- A million is 10^6 (1 followed by 6 zeros),
- A billion is 10^9 (1 followed by 9 zeros),
- A trillion is 10^12 (1 followed by 12 zeros), and so on.
This continues in steps of three zeros. So:
- A centillion is the 100th term in this pattern (after million), calculated as 3 × 100 + 3 = 303 zeros (the additional 3 is from the original million, which starts the pattern at 10^6).
The other options listed are incorrect:
- 1 × 10^63 is significantly smaller than 1 × 10^303. It represents a vigintillion in the American system.
- Infinite numbers do not apply here. A centillion is a very large but finite number.
In conclusion, a centillion in the American system is written as 1 followed by 303 zeros, or 1 × 10^303. While unimaginably large, it is still finite and well-defined.
