The discussion focuses on calculating the relative uncertainty of mass, specifically using a mass (M) of 1.0 grams and an uncertainty (δM) of ±0.05 grams. The relative uncertainty is computed using the formula δM/M, resulting in values of 0.05 and 0.050. The key question raised is about the appropriate number of significant figures in the final answer, with the consensus leaning towards 0.05 being the correct representation due to the significant figures in the original measurements.
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The units cancel when dividing grams by grams !ChiralWaltz said:Homework Statement
Calculate the relative uncertainty in the mass
mass (M) = 1.0 grams
Homework Equations
\frac{\delta M}{M}
The Attempt at a Solution
\delta M = \pm0.05g
\frac {0.05g}{1.0g} = 0.05g
or
\frac {0.05g}{1.0g} = 0.050g
Which one has the appropriate amount of sig figs?
thanks for your help :)