- #1
Ognerok
- 5
- 0
Homework Statement
I need to calculate F = (5/9) (6.5) + 32 using the correct number of sig figs.
Homework Equations
F = (5/9) (c) + 32
The Attempt at a Solution
Got down to 3.6 + 32; should it just be 35.6 or 36?
Feldoh said:3.6 + 32 you're adding a number with two sig figs to another number with two sig figs, so would you have two sig figs (36) or three (35.6) in the final answer?
Chi Meson said:...
If this is an equation for Force (implied by the "F"), then the 32 must be a force which means it must have been measured. All measurements are inherently flawed and suffer from finite precision and some inaccuracy. 32 is a two sig measurement.
Ognerok said:Ah, nevermind. Considering 32 is an exact number anyway (a "counting" number) in which sig figs aren't counted in the 32.
I guess if it was 3.6 + 32.0000, then sig figs would be counted for the 32.0000 (which is, 4 decimal places vs. 1 decimal place; result should have 1 decimal place).
kuruman said:For whatever it's worth, looks like he is converting temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius.
** Edit **
I meant from Celsius to Fahrenheit.
"Sig fig calc" stands for significant figure calculator. It is a tool used to calculate and display numbers with the appropriate number of significant figures.
Significant figures are important because they represent the precision or accuracy of a measurement or calculation. Using the correct number of significant figures ensures that the result is not misleading or incorrect.
The general rule for determining significant figures is to count all non-zero digits and all zeros between non-zero digits. However, there are specific rules for trailing zeros, leading zeros, and numbers written in scientific notation.
Rounding to the correct number of significant figures helps to maintain the precision of a calculation. It allows for a more accurate representation of the result while still being within the limits of the measurement's precision.
Yes, significant figures can be used in all types of calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and more complex equations. It is important to follow the rules for determining significant figures and rounding to ensure the accuracy of the result.