Sig fig or decimal places for variance?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the variance of the dataset consisting of the numbers 34.1, 35.6, 35.8, 34.3, 32.9, and 33.7, resulting in a variance of 0.208. The main debate is whether to express this variance using three significant figures, as calculated, or to round it to one decimal place, resulting in 0.2. The consensus leans towards using 0.208, aligning with the significant figures of the original dataset. A reference link was provided to support this conclusion.

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Homework Statement



Calculate variance of 34.1, 35.6, 35.8, 34.3, 32.9, 33.7


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The Attempt at a Solution



A set of numbers: 34.1, 35.6, 35.8, 34.3, 32.9, 33.7

I have calculated the variance to be = 0.208

Would it be better to quote to three sig fig as I have done. This being the number of sig fig of the numbers in the set.

Or should I quote it as 0.2, this being the same number of decimal places of the numbers in the set.

Thanks
 
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here's a reference to help:

http://www.usca.edu/chemistry/genchem/sigfig2.htm

from it I'd conclude that 0.208 is the better answer.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks very much for the link jedishrfu
 

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