Significant Figures problem help

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    Significant figures
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To solve the problem of calculating the volume of concrete needed for a sidewalk around a swimming pool, one must first determine the dimensions of the pool and the sidewalk, including their uncertainties. The volume can be found by calculating the outer dimensions of the sidewalk and subtracting the volume of the pool. To find the largest and smallest possible volumes, one should consider the maximum and minimum values of the dimensions, factoring in the uncertainties. Understanding significant figures is crucial for accurate calculations and reporting results. Additional resources, such as linked threads, can provide further guidance on applying these concepts effectively.
rumaithya
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Hello, I've found this question in my book and I'm interested to know how to solve this problem. Can anyone help?
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A sidewalk is to be constructed around a swimming pool that measures (10.0 +- 0.1 )m by (17.0 +- 0.1)m. If the side walk is to measure (1.00 +- 0.01)m wide by (9.0 +- 0.1) cm thick, what volume of concrete is needed, and what is the approximate uncertainty of this volume.
 
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Question for you, how do you find the volume? What would you do to find the largest possible volume? The Smallest possible? Think about it.
 
rumaithya, check out this thread https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=41528 for some additional explanations about using significant figures. This might help you understand how to solve your problem.
 

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