Question

How many significant figures should be reported for the following calculation:

5.2110 × 12.20 ÷ (11.44 - 2.113)

Answer 1

5.2110 × 12.20 ÷ (11.44 - 2.113)=5.211*12.20/9.327=5.211*1.31=6.83 [significant figure is 3]

Given decimals have significant figures as:

5.2110 [zero at the end not counted for significant figure] ,significant figure is 4

12.20 [significant figure is 3]

11.44 [sig figure is 4]

2.113 [sig fig is 4]

Rule for significant figure states that the least number of significant figures in any decimal for must be reported for division/multiplication as answer to give the most precise calculation.

So, the answer must be reported in 3 significant figures.