The expression “1e9” as displayed on a calculator represents a numerical value in scientific notation. Specifically, it signifies 1 multiplied by 10 raised to the power of 9. This equates to 1,000,000,000, which is commonly referred to as one billion. The “e” serves as shorthand for “exponent” or “times ten to the power of.” For instance, if a calculator displays 2.5e9, it represents 2.5 multiplied by 10 to the power of 9, resulting in 2,500,000,000.
This notation is particularly useful when dealing with very large or very small numbers that would otherwise be cumbersome to write out in full. Its prevalence stems from the need to efficiently represent quantities in scientific and engineering calculations, where values can span a wide range of magnitudes. Its adoption has simplified complex calculations and data representation across numerous fields.