How many significant figures are in the quantity 105 cm?
When determining the number of significant figures in a numerical value, it is important to understand the rules for identifying significant digits. Significant figures, also known as significant digits, are the digits in a number that are known with certainty, plus one uncertain digit. In the quantity 105 cm, the determination of significant figures can be broken down as follows:
In the number 105 cm, the digits 1, 0, and 5 are all considered significant. The first digit, 1, is a non-zero digit and is always considered significant. The second digit, 0, is between two non-zero digits and is also significant. The third digit, 5, is a non-zero digit and is significant. Therefore, there are three significant figures in the quantity 105 cm.
It is important to note that trailing zeros are not considered significant unless they are explicitly written with a decimal point. In the case of 105 cm, there are no trailing zeros, so the number of significant figures remains at three.
Understanding the number of significant figures in a quantity is crucial for scientific calculations and measurements. It helps ensure accuracy and precision in data representation and allows for better communication among scientists and researchers. By adhering to the rules for identifying significant figures, one can confidently determine the level of precision in a given measurement or calculation.
