In which of the fo1losing pairs do both numbers contain the same number of significant figures? (2.2)
a. 2.0500 m and 0.0205 m
b. 600.0 K and 60 K
c. 0.000 75 s and 75 000 s
d. 6.240 L and
To determine:
The pairs of numbers that contain the same number of significant figures
Answer to Problem 2.81UTC
c) 0.000 75 s and 75 000 s
d) 6.240 L and 6.240 × 10-2 L
Explanation of Solution
A number is significant if it is:
- Non-zero digit.
- Any zeros between two or more non-zero digits.
- Trailing zeroes in the decimal number.
Also, note that zero placed after a non-zero digit without any decimal is simply a place holder and insignificant. Therefore, as per the above rules one can write:
a)
Number | Significant Figures |
2.0500 m | 5 |
0.0205 m | 3 |
b)
Number | Significant Figures |
600.0 K | 4 |
60 K | 1 |
c)
Number | Significant Figures |
0.000 75 s | 2 |
75 000 s | 2 |
d)
Number | Significant Figures |
6.240 L | 4 |
6.240 × 10-2 L | 4 |
The pairs of numbers in (c) and (d) have the same significant figures.
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