Physics
Physics
Problem
When is multiplied by , to how many significant figures should the numerical value of the product be reported?Intuitive explanation
Significant figures in multiplication are determined by the measurement with the fewest significant figures—that's your limiting factor. Count the sig figs in each number carefully (remember that all non-zero digits count, and zeros between non-zero digits do too), then your answer can only be as precise as the least precise input. This rule reflects the reality that you can't make a measurement more accurate just by multiplying it.
Intuitive explanation
Significant figures in multiplication are determined by the measurement with the fewest significant figures—that's your limiting factor. Count the sig figs in each number carefully (remember that all non-zero digits count, and zeros between non-zero digits do too), then your answer can only be as precise as the least precise input. This rule reflects the reality that you can't make a measurement more accurate just by multiplying it.