Question

Zeros are always considered significant digits when they are to the left of the decimal point

Answer 1

Zeros to the left of a decimal can be insignificant place holders, such as in 0.043 (two significant figures).

They can be significant if they are between two digits who themselves are significant, such as in 101.000 (three significant figures).

In the case of a number like 1,000 we can see there is only one significant figure. The zero digits are not between sigfigs.\

Answer 2

Zeros to the left of a decimal can be insignificant place holders, such as in 0.043 (two significant figures).

They can be significant if they are between two digits who themselves are significant, such as in 101.000 (three significant figures).

In the case of a number like 1,000 we can see there is only one significant figure. The zero digits are not between sigfigs.