Easton broke a cell sample into 8 batches, each weighing \( 3.9 \times 10^{-5} \) grams. How much did the original sample weigh? Use scientific notation to express your answer. Answer Attempt 3 out of 3 Answer: \( \square \times 10 \) grams Submit Answer

1. Each batch weighs \(3.9 \times 10^{-5}\) grams. 2. Since there are 8 batches, the total weight is calculated by multiplying the number of batches by the weight of one batch: \[ 8 \times \left(3.9 \times 10^{-5}\right) \] 3. Multiply the coefficients: \[ 8 \times 3.9 = 31.2 \] so the expression becomes: \[ 31.2 \times 10^{-5} \text{ grams} \] 4. Convert \(31.2 \times 10^{-5}\) into proper scientific notation. Write \(31.2\) as \(3.12 \times 10^1\): \[ 31.2 \times 10^{-5} = \left(3.12 \times 10^1\right) \times 10^{-5} = 3.12 \times 10^{1-5} = 3.12 \times 10^{-4} \text{ grams} \] Thus, the original sample weighed \( \boxed{3.12 \times 10^{-4}} \) grams.