Multiplying a number by which of the following would result in a smaller number? \( 10^{-1} \) \( 10^{0} \) \( 10^{2} \) \( 10^{1} \)

When you multiply a number by \( 10^{-1} \), you are effectively dividing it by 10. This will always yield a smaller number than the original. For instance, if you multiply 50 by \( 10^{-1} \), you'd get 5, which is indeed smaller. On the other hand, multiplying by \( 10^{0} \) (which equals 1), \( 10^{1} \) (which equals 10), or \( 10^{2} \) (which equals 100) will not decrease the value of the number. In fact, the latter two will actually increase it! So, remember, when in doubt, the negative exponent is your go-to for reducing values!