Significant Figures for Determining Block Measurements

In summary, the conversation discusses determining the significant figures for various measurements of a block in a physics lab report. The last question asks about the smallest division on a meter stick and how to use it to determine the significant figures. The speaker's teacher did not teach them about significant figures and they are seeking assistance on how to figure it out on their own. The conversation concludes with a reminder that any answer can only be as accurate as the least accurate factor used.
  • #1
Jeng
3
0
im doing my physics lab report[ first one]
and the last question asks

'using a meter stick, to how many significant figures could you determine the length of the block?___________ The width of the block?__________The thickness of the block?__________The volume of the block?____________


block's...
length=10.6
width=3.7
thickness=1.2
volume=47.064
all in cm.

my teacher never taught us sig figs, and said we have to figure it out, none of us know and he won't help, so if you could help me, like where to start and how to figure it out.
thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Well significant figures can only go up to the least accurate number
ex. 10.6 + 10.333 + 1.899999999 would equal 22.833 but since the least acurate one is 10.6 you would have to put 22.8 Try to think of how many significant figures a meter stick has and then make your answers that small.
 
  • #3
What is the smallest division on your meter stick? What part of that smallest division do you think you can distinguish using your calibrated eyeballs?
Any answer will be no more accurate than the least accurate factor that goes into it.
 

1. What is the definition of volume?

Volume is a measure of the amount of space occupied by a three-dimensional object.

2. How do you calculate the volume of a block?

The volume of a block can be calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the block.

3. What is the SI unit for volume?

The SI unit for volume is cubic meters (m^3).

4. How is the volume of an irregularly shaped block measured?

The volume of an irregularly shaped block can be measured by submerging it in a known amount of water and measuring the increase in water level, which is equal to the volume of the block.

5. Does the volume of a block change with its orientation?

No, the volume of a block remains the same regardless of its orientation. This is because the length, width, and height of the block do not change when it is rotated.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
555
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
629
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Precalculus Mathematics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
25
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top