Hey, when we solve for significant figures, why do we completely get rid of the remaining decimals even though hey have more accurate information?
Ex. 1.23*4.84=5.9532 but we would make it 5.95 based on Sig figs, even though those last two decimals are closer to the answer. Why is this? I know it’s less accurate, though it seems like we’re losing valuable accuracy (even if it’s not perfect, it should be closer)
In: Mathematics
Well sig figs has everything to do with accuracy. Scientist want to convey the accuracy of calculated numbers. Thus, your answer can only be as accurate as your least accurate measurement. We cut those extra numbers off not to be more accurate but to remain equally accurate as before.
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