Rounding Sig Figs: 6.941+63.996+35.45 = 106.387

  • Thread starter alicia113
  • Start date
In summary, when adding or subtracting numbers, the number of significant figures in the answer should be limited by the number with the least significant figures. However, when multiplying or dividing numbers, the final result should have the same number of significant figures as the number with the least significant figures. Overall, significant figures are just a rough guideline and there are better ways to express precision.
  • #1
alicia113
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ok so this may sound really dumb but i need to refresh my memory on this so here is the question

6.941+63.996+35.45 = 106.387

how do i know how many sig figs to round too with this?
 
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  • #2
Since the 35.45 is not written as 35.450 then you have to use it as the limiting significant figures hence your answer would be 106.39
 
  • #3
jedishrfu said:
Since the 35.45 is not written as 35.450 then you have to use it as the limiting significant figures hence your answer would be 106.39

so you always use the smallest one correct?
 
  • #4
alicia113 said:
so you always use the smallest one correct?
Consider this: Say you are doing an experiment and you know one parameter to a good degree of precision and another parameter to a lesser degree of precision. Now say we have some other parameter that is dependent on these two parameters. When you combine them (i.e by dividing, multiplying etc) this dependent parameter will be affected by this parameter which you knew to a lesser precision. Hence, yes, you should quote your final result to the lowest number of sig fig in your data.
 
  • #5
alicia113 said:
so you always use the smallest one correct?

This is not exactly true.

100.23 + 0.11 = 100.34

but

100.23*0.11 = 11

Rules for addition and subtraction are slightly different than for multiplication and division.

Don't worry too much about significant figures. There are much better ways of expressing precision of the result. Sigfigs are more of a rule of thumb.
 

What is rounding sig figs?

Rounding sig figs is a mathematical process used to simplify numbers while maintaining a certain level of precision. This is commonly used in scientific calculations to avoid presenting numbers with an excessive amount of digits.

Why is rounding sig figs important in science?

Rounding sig figs is important in science because it ensures that the accuracy and precision of calculations are maintained. In scientific experiments, even the smallest variations can have a significant impact on the results, so it is crucial to present numbers with the appropriate level of precision.

How do you round sig figs?

To round sig figs, you must first determine the significant figures in the numbers being added. Then, look at the first digit after the last significant figure and round it up if it is 5 or higher, and round down if it is 4 or lower. Finally, drop any additional digits after the desired level of precision.

What are the rules for rounding sig figs?

The rules for rounding sig figs are: - Non-zero digits are always significant.- Zeros between non-zero digits are significant.- Leading zeros are not significant.- Trailing zeros after a decimal point are significant.- Trailing zeros before a decimal point with an explicit decimal point are significant.- Trailing zeros before a decimal point without an explicit decimal point are not significant.

Can rounding sig figs change the value of a calculation?

Yes, rounding sig figs can change the value of a calculation. This is because rounding introduces a level of uncertainty and can alter the precision of the numbers being used. It is important to keep this in mind when rounding sig figs and to use the appropriate level of precision for the given calculation.

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