Simple average question using sig figs within ± 0.0 of uncertainty?

In summary, the conversation discusses calculating the average mileage using significant figures and within a margin of ± 0.0 mph. The correct answer would be 26.6 ± 0.0 mph.
  • #1
bobi
2
0
Simple average question using sig figs within ± 0.0 ?

Homework Statement



Consider the following measurements of mileages:
23.8 mph, 20.1 mph, 26.5 mph, 20.7 mph, 21.7 mph, 27.6 mph,
30 mph, 28 mph, 27.4 mph, 34.3 mph, 26.5 mph, 32.7 mph.
What is the average mileage (using sig figs)?

Answer in units of mph Your answer must be within ± 0.0 mph.

Homework Equations



Avg=Total Sum/number of variables


The Attempt at a Solution



The average calculated was 26.60833333. And Since two variables have only two sig figs, I thought the answer should be 27. But it was a wrong answer.
But the last part of question asked the answer to be within ± 0.0 mph.

What does 'within ± 0.0 mph' means? No uncertainty? Or typo of 0.1 or 0.01?
What should be the correct answer?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Welcome to PF, bobi! :smile:

'within ± 0.0 mph' means within ± 0.05 mph.
That is, with 1 digit after the decimal point.
So your average would be 26.6 ± 0.0 mph
 
  • #3
I like Serena said:
Welcome to PF, bobi! :smile:

'within ± 0.0 mph' means within ± 0.05 mph.
That is, with 1 digit after the decimal point.
So your average would be 26.6 ± 0.0 mph

Thanks a lot!
 

1. What is the purpose of using significant figures in scientific measurements?

Significant figures are used in scientific measurements to indicate the precision or accuracy of a measurement. They help to communicate the level of uncertainty in a measurement and ensure consistency in reporting results.

2. How do you determine the number of significant figures in a measurement?

The rules for determining significant figures can vary, but a general guideline is to count all non-zero digits as significant, as well as any zeros between non-zero digits. Trailing zeros after a decimal point are also significant. Leading zeros are not significant and are used only to indicate the decimal place.

3. What is the significance of ± 0.0 of uncertainty in a measurement?

The ± 0.0 of uncertainty refers to the range of possible values for a measurement. It indicates that the true value is likely to fall within this range, and that the measurement is not exact. This uncertainty can be due to limitations in equipment, human error, or other factors.

4. Why is it important to report measurements with the correct number of significant figures?

Reporting measurements with the correct number of significant figures ensures accuracy and consistency in scientific data. It also allows for proper analysis and comparison of results, as well as avoiding misleading conclusions.

5. How do you perform calculations using measurements with different numbers of significant figures?

In calculations, the result should be rounded to the same number of significant figures as the measurement with the least number of significant figures. This maintains the appropriate level of precision and avoids introducing additional uncertainty into the calculation.

Similar threads

Uncertainty of Average Acceleration
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
18K
2 questions--seems simple -- Heisenberg Uncertainty
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Uncertanties and errors question
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Heisenburg Uncertainty Principle - Seems like an easy question?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
Question on estimated uncertainty and significant digits
    • Precalculus Mathematics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
4K
Why can't i apply the simple average velocity formula?
    • Mechanics
Replies
4
Views
3K
A question about uncertainty using a regression line and experimental data
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Probability and Statistics Questions
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
4K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top