Express the results of the following calculations with the correct number of significant figures. (d) 5502.3 + 24 + 0.01

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the number of significant figures in each number: 5502.3 has 5 significant figures, 24 has 2 significant figures, and 0.01 has 1 significant figure.
2. When adding or subtracting, the result should be reported with the same number of decimal places as the number with the least decimal places. Here, 24 has 0 decimal places.
3. Perform the addition: 5502.3 + 24 + 0.01.
4. Round the result to the nearest whole number, since 24 has 0 decimal places.
5. Express the final result with the correct number of significant figures based on the least number of decimal places.

Key Concepts

Significant Figures

Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. This includes all non-zero digits, any zeros between significant digits, and trailing zeros in the decimal portion. Understanding significant figures is crucial for accurately reporting measurements and calculations in chemistry, as it reflects the precision of the data.

Rules for Addition and Subtraction

When performing addition or subtraction, the result should be reported with the same number of decimal places as the measurement with the fewest decimal places. This rule ensures that the precision of the result is not overstated, maintaining the integrity of the data. For example, in the calculation of 5502.3 + 24 + 0.01, the final answer should reflect the least precise measurement.

Rounding Rules

Rounding rules dictate how to adjust numbers to reflect the correct number of significant figures. When rounding, if the digit to be dropped is less than 5, the last retained digit remains unchanged; if it is 5 or greater, the last retained digit is increased by one. Proper rounding is essential to ensure that the final answer is both accurate and appropriately precise.