Calculate to the correct number of significant figures. d. 453 ÷ 2.031

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the number of significant figures in each number: 453 has 3 significant figures, and 2.031 has 4 significant figures.
2. Perform the division: 453 ÷ 2.031.
3. Determine the number of significant figures for the result: The result should have the same number of significant figures as the number with the fewest significant figures, which is 3 in this case.
4. Round the result of the division to 3 significant figures.
5. Express the final answer with the correct number of significant figures.

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.

Division and Significant Figures

When performing division, the result should be reported with the same number of significant figures as the measurement with the least number of significant figures. This rule ensures that the precision of the result reflects the precision of the least precise measurement involved in the calculation.

Calculating with Significant Figures

To calculate with significant figures, first perform the mathematical operation, then round the result to the appropriate number of significant figures based on the inputs. For the division of 453 by 2.031, you would first calculate the quotient and then adjust the final answer to match the significant figures of the number with the least precision.