Question

Perform the following calculation and report the answer to the correct number of significant figures (assume all numbers come from measurements):

3.6 + 7.426 + 0.2403

Answer 1

To add 3.6, 7.426, and 0.2403 accounting for significant figures the sum is first calculated normally, then rounded to match the least number of decimal places of the numbers involved. The answer is 11.3.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question is asking for a calculation involving addition and the proper use of significant figures. When adding numbers, the answer must be rounded to the least number of decimal places of any number in the sum. The calculation given is 3.6 + 7.426 + 0.2403. To perform this calculation while preserving significant figures:

• First, simply add the numbers: 3.6 + 7.426 + 0.2403 = 11.2663.
• Then, identify the number with the least number of decimal places, which is 3.6 (1 decimal place).
• Finally, round the result to 1 decimal place: 11.3.

Therefore, the correct answer to the proper number of significant figures is 11.3.