Why Are Units and Significant Figures Crucial in Scientific Calculations?

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Units and significant figures are essential in scientific calculations to ensure accuracy and clarity in results. The student's calculated angular velocity of 0.0002 rad/s is too imprecise, leading to an unreasonably long period of 31415.92 seconds, which lacks proper significant figures. Both results fail to reflect the precision of the measurements and calculations involved. Proper scientific notation should be employed to convey the results more effectively. Accurate representation of units and significant figures is crucial for valid scientific communication.
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Interpreting Results?

Homework Statement



A student recently submitted a homework solution in which he or she had calculated
an angular velocity w = 0.0002 rad/s (for a satellite going around the Earth.) The
student then found the period by using T = rad /w = 31415.92 seconds. Describe why
both answers are unacceptable. This is not about any formulae — it is about the
results that are given. (Your discussion should contain 4 or 5 sentences at the least.)

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I think scentific notation should be applied, but other than that? Not sure what they want.

TIA
 
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When a satellite going around the Earth, the centripetal force is provided by the gravitational froce of Earth on the satellite.
Hence m*w^2*R = GMm/R^2. Where R is the radius of the Earth and M is the mass of the earth. Where close to the Earth GM = gR^2 where g s the acceleration due to gravity. Using these values calculate w. and verify the result with the given value.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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