Hi AbeNeedsAnswers,
This question can actually be solved by breaking the prompt down into 'pieces' (and using a bit of estimation on one of them).
Let's start with two things you probably already know: 10^2 = 100 and √100 = 10
Using Exponent Rules, we can break down (4.8 x 10^9) into 5 'pieces':
(4.8 x 10)(10^2)(10^2)(10^2)(10^2)
Next we have to square-root all of this. Since this is just a big product, using Radical Rules, we are allowed to square-root each piece... When we do, we get...
(about 7)(10)(10)(10)(10) =
(about 7)(10,000) =
about 70,000
Final Answer: B
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich