How this calculation works
The boundary between 100 and 1,000 is about 316.23 on a log scale. Ordinary rounding to hundreds uses a different distance.
Round log₁₀(x) to the nearest integer, then raise ten to that exponentA worked example
720 lies above the geometric midpoint √(100 × 1000), so its nearest power is 1,000.
Good to know
This uses logarithmic distance. It is suitable for scale comparisons.
Reference: OpenStax Prealgebra (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Find the nearest power of ten on a logarithmic scale. The transition between consecutive powers occurs at their geometric mean.
The primary result is labeled “Nearest power of ten”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
This uses logarithmic distance. It is suitable for scale comparisons.
For a related exercise, try the fraction calculator.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
720 lies above the geometric midpoint √(100 × 1000), so its nearest power is 1,000.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
Round log₁₀(x) to the nearest integer, then raise ten to that exponent