Calculate Avg of 2 Values with Significant Figures: 1.56324 N & 1.13405 N

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SUMMARY

The average of the two measured values, 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N, is calculated as 1.348645 N. When applying significant figures, the result should reflect the precision of the least precise measurement. Since both values have six significant figures, the average should be reported as 1.34865 N, maintaining the significant figures of the measured values rather than rounding to 1 N.

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jeehoo
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Homework Statement


We measured 2 values and were asked to calculate their average using sig fig
The two values were: 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N.

( 1.56324 N + 1.13405 N ) / 2 = 1.348645 N

Would the answer be 1.34865 N or 1 N?
(Someone told me that we only use the sig figs of measured values, which are 1.56324 N and 1.13405 N.)

Homework Equations


avg. = sum of values / number of values

The Attempt at a Solution


I think it's 1 N since when dividing or multiplying you use the sig fig of numbers with the least amount of sig figs.
 
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jeehoo said:
I think it's 1 N since when dividing or multiplying you use the sig fig of numbers with the least amount of sig figs.
Realize that the 2 you are dividing by is an exact number. Dividing by an exact number does not impact the number of significant digits in your answer.
 

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