What is the meaning of the prefix "mega" in powers of ten?

The prefix "mega" in the context of powers of ten specifically represents the factor of ten raised to the sixth power, or 10^6. This is a standard definition used in the International System of Units (SI), where "mega-" signifies one million. Understanding this helps to clarify the scale of measurements often encountered in science and engineering.

For example, when dealing with bytes in computer science, one megabyte (MB) equals 1,000,000 bytes, adhering to the definition of "mega" as 10^6. This correct interpretation ensures that calculations involving large quantities are precise and consistent across various disciplines.

In comparison, other options represent different scales: 10^3 corresponds to "kilo" (one thousand), 10^9 corresponds to "giga" (one billion), and 10^12 refers to "tera" (one trillion). Recognizing the correct definition of "mega" is essential for proper communication of data and units in professional and technical contexts.