Calculate Avg of 2 Values with Significant Figures: 1.56324 N & 1.13405 N

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the average of 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N using significant figures, the sum is 2.69729 N, which divided by 2 equals 1.348645 N. The correct answer should be rounded to 1.34865 N, as the significant figures are determined by the measured values, not the divisor. The divisor, being an exact number, does not affect the significant figures of the result. Therefore, the final answer retains the significant figures of the measured values. Proper application of significant figures is crucial in scientific calculations.
jeehoo
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Homework Statement


We measured 2 values and were asked to calculate their average using sig fig
The two values were: 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N.

( 1.56324 N + 1.13405 N ) / 2 = 1.348645 N

Would the answer be 1.34865 N or 1 N?
(Someone told me that we only use the sig figs of measured values, which are 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N.)

Homework Equations


avg. = sum of values / number of values

The Attempt at a Solution


I think it's 1 N since when dividing or multiplying you use the sig fig of numbers with the least amount of sig figs.
 
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jeehoo said:
I think it's 1 N since when dividing or multiplying you use the sig fig of numbers with the least amount of sig figs.
Realize that the 2 you are dividing by is an exact number. Dividing by an exact number does not impact the number of significant digits in your answer.
 
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