Measurements

Front

What are significant figures?

Back

Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. This includes all non-zero digits, any zeros between significant digits, and trailing zeros in the decimal portion.

Front

How do you determine the number of significant figures in a measurement?

Back

To determine the number of significant figures, count all non-zero digits, any zeros between them, and trailing zeros in a decimal number. Leading zeros are not counted.

Front

What is the importance of significant figures in measurements?

Back

Significant figures convey the precision of a measurement and help communicate the uncertainty in the measurement process.

Front

How do you round a number to a specific number of significant figures?

Back

To round a number to a specific number of significant figures, identify the last significant figure you want to keep, look at the next digit, and round up if it is 5 or greater, or leave it unchanged if it is less than 5.

Front

What is the rule for adding and subtracting numbers with significant figures?

Back

When adding or subtracting, the result should be rounded to the least number of decimal places of any number in the operation.

Front

What is the rule for multiplying and dividing numbers with significant figures?

Back

When multiplying or dividing, the result should be rounded to the least number of significant figures of any number in the operation.

Front

What is the estimated digit in a measurement?

Back

The estimated digit is the additional digit that is inferred between the lines of a measuring instrument, which adds precision to the measurement.

Front

How do you record a measurement with the correct number of significant figures?

Back

To record a measurement with the correct number of significant figures, ensure that you include all certain digits and one estimated digit, following the rules of significant figures.

Front

What is the significance of trailing zeros in a measurement?

Back

Trailing zeros in a measurement are significant only if they are to the right of a decimal point. They indicate the precision of the measurement.

Front

What is the difference between precision and accuracy in measurements?

Back

Precision refers to the consistency of repeated measurements, while accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true value.