When multiplying 3.24 (measured to three significant figures) by 0.56 (measured to two significant figures), to how many significant figures should the final answer be rounded?

• A. One significant figure
• B. Four significant figures
• C. Three significant figures
• D. Two significant figures

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the number of significant figures in each number: 3.24 has three significant figures, and 0.56 has two significant figures.
2. Recall the rule for multiplication and division: the result should be rounded to the same number of significant figures as the factor with the fewest significant figures.
3. Compare the significant figures of the two numbers: 3 (from 3.24) and 2 (from 0.56). The smaller number is 2.
4. Therefore, the final answer should be rounded to two significant figures.
5. Apply this rule when performing the multiplication to ensure the result reflects the correct precision.