0.000236 kg has_ significant figures.
a 5
b 2
c 3
d 4
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is C) 3.
When determining the number of significant figures in a given number, the key is to count all non-zero digits, any zeros that are between non-zero digits, and any trailing zeros in the decimal portion. However, leading zeros (zeros that appear before the first non-zero digit) are not counted as significant.
Looking at 0.000236 kg:
- The number has leading zeros, but these are not counted as significant. These zeros simply serve to place the decimal point.
- The digits 236 are non-zero and therefore all count as significant figures.
Thus, 0.000236 kg has 3 significant figures: 2, 3, and 6.
Significant figures are crucial in scientific measurements because they reflect the precision of a measurement. For example, if an instrument can measure up to 0.0001 kg, then a reading of 0.000236 kg implies that the measurement is accurate to the thousandths place, and the number of significant figures indicates the level of certainty in the measurement.
In contrast, if the number had been written as 0.00002360 kg, it would have four significant figures. This is because the trailing zero after the 6 is significant, as it is part of the decimal portion of the number. If the same number were written as 0.0000236 kg, it would only have three significant figures, as there would be no trailing zero.
Understanding significant figures helps maintain accuracy in scientific calculations and ensures that results are reported with the appropriate level of precision.