Significant Figures: Do Instructors Require Them?

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In physics, the emphasis on significant figures varies among instructors, with some prioritizing the process of problem-solving over strict adherence to sigfig rules. While some educators may downplay their importance, others highlight their relevance in experimental physics, where precision and accuracy matter. Textbooks often include significant figures, suggesting they are still a valuable skill to master. The discussion indicates a need for students to adapt to different expectations based on the subject matter. Understanding significant figures remains essential for accurately conveying measurement precision in scientific contexts.
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There isn't really a problem, but I just had a question about sigfigs. My current Physics teacher tells my class that in physics significant figures aren't that important like in chemistry, so we ignore them in our problems and just round to the nearest hundredth.

Do you instructors require significant figures for your students? My textbook uses them, so I have a feeling I should get used to them again.
 
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Probably what they meant was that physics lessons are concerned with how you get the answer not the details of the measuremnt.
In experimental physics - precision, accuracy, experimental error and sig figures are important.
 

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