The correct option is 10^-9.
Explanation
The International System of Units (SI) utilizes standard prefixes to denote multiplication by powers of ten. These prefixes facilitate the expression of very large or very small quantities in a concise manner.
Analysis of Options:
- 10^-9 is Correct: The prefix 'nano' (symbol: n) represents a factor of 10-9, or one billionth. It is commonly used in nanotechnology and atomic scale measurements.
- 10^-12 is Incorrect: The value 10-12 corresponds to the prefix 'pico' (symbol: p).
- 10^-6 is Incorrect: The value 10-6 corresponds to the prefix 'micro' (symbol: μ).
- 10^-3 is Incorrect: The value 10-3 corresponds to the prefix 'milli' (symbol: m).
Key Takeaway: The SI prefix 'nano' signifies 10-9, distinguishing it from 'micro' (10-6) and 'pico' (10-12).