Question

hi I am learning significant figures and the rules about the zeros are pretty confusing. so heres the problem I am stuck on. how many sig figs in the following number : 0.0700000 ?

Answer 1

It is 6 significant figures. The 0 in front of the 7 is a place holder so it is not significant. However, the zeros after the 7 show accuracy and ARE significant.

Answer 2

ohhh I thought there were 7 sig figs because the zero in front of the 7, is a zero to the right of the decimal point, so I thought it was significant?

Answer 3

It is only significant if there is something to the left of the decimal. For example: 7.0 Then there are TWO significant figures because the zero, again, shows accuracy. The zero in your problem just shows that its in the hundredth's place. (its consider insignificant)

Answer 4

considered**

Answer 5

I can give you some examples if you want :P

Answer 6

hmmm okay. that makes more sense. Thanks for clearing things up!!! much appreciated. :)

Answer 7

lol your explanation will suffice. Thanks anway! :) :)

Answer 8

You're welcome :D