If I had ((9-8.8))/8.8 how many sig figs would my answer have

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of significant figures in the expression ((9-8.8))/8.8. Participants explore the implications of significant figures based on whether the numbers involved are measured or counted quantities.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that the result has only one significant figure, concluding that (9-8.8) equals 0, leading to a final result of 0.
  • Another participant questions whether "9" is a measured quantity or a counted number, noting that if it is measured, it has only one significant figure, while if counted, it can have any number of significant figures.
  • A further elaboration suggests that if "9" is treated as a measured quantity, the calculation yields 0, while if treated as a counted quantity with a decimal (9.0), the result would be 0.023, which has two significant figures due to the "8.8" also having two significant figures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the treatment of the number "9" and its impact on the significant figures in the calculation. There is no consensus on the correct interpretation or the final number of significant figures.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the ambiguity in defining whether "9" is a measured or counted quantity, which affects the determination of significant figures. The implications of this distinction remain unresolved.

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If I had ((9-8.8))/8.8 how many sig figs would my answer have
 
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billabuwl50 said:
If I had ((9-8.8))/8.8 how many sig figs would my answer have
Only one sig fig. Since 9-8.8 = 0. and 0./8.8 = 0.

On a side note: sig figs are really funny. You use 'em in high school but you never really use 'em afterwards (OK, maybe in chemistry but that's it).
 
Last edited:
Sig figs were my least favorite part of physics.
 
Is the "9" a measured quantity or counted? If measured, then the fact that you only give one figure means it has only one significant figure- it could be anywhere between 8.5 and 9.5. If counted, then it is exact and can have any number of significant figures.

In the first case, as swapnil said, it is (9- 9)/8.8= 0

In the second, (9.0- 8.8)/8.8= 0.2/8.8= 0.023 (or, better, 2.3 x 10-2. The result has 2 significant figures because the "measured quanities", the "8.8"s have 2 significant figures.
 

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