Scientific prefixes: The prefix “giga” (G) represents which power of ten?

Introduction / Context:
Metric prefixes are ubiquitous in engineering data sheets, process instrumentation, and scientific notation. Knowing the exponent associated with a prefix avoids orders-of-magnitude errors in calculations and reporting.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We follow SI prefix conventions.
• Giga is commonly used for large quantities (e.g., gigapascal, gigajoule).

Concept / Approach:
SI prefixes map a symbol to a power of ten. The sequence around giga is: mega (10^6), giga (10^9), tera (10^12), peta (10^15). Negative exponents include milli (10^-3), micro (10^-6), nano (10^-9), pico (10^-12).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Common usage examples: 1 GJ = 10^9 J; 1 GHz = 10^9 cycles/s. These confirm the 10^9 scaling.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 10^-12: That is pico.
• 10^12: That is tera.
• 10^15: That is peta.

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up giga with tera due to both using capital letters; always confirm the exponent.

Final Answer:
10^9