Final answer:
The question pertains to arithmetic operations where the answers must be reported with the correct number of significant figures, reflecting the precision based on the least accurate number used in each calculation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to performing arithmetic operations and expressing the answers with the proper number of significant figures. In mathematics, especially in a scientific context, significant figures are crucial because they indicate the precision of measurements and calculations. In operations involving addition or subtraction, the result should be reported to the least number of decimal places of the numbers in the operation. For multiplication or division, the result should have the same number of significant figures as the number with the fewest significant figures used in the calculation. Here are some examples:
- 56.0 + 3.44 = 59.44. This should be reported as 59.4 because the number with the least decimal places (56.0) has one decimal place.
- 0.00665 + 1.004 = 1.01065. This is reported as 1.011 to maintain the same number of decimal places as the least precise number, which in this case is three.
- 45.99 - 32.8 = 13.19. The result here should be expressed as 13.2 because the number with the least number of decimal places (32.8) has one decimal place.
When performing calculations, it is important to follow these rules to ensure that the reported answer reflects the proper level of precision based on the input numbers. Remember to always round off your final answer after all calculations have been completed, maintaining the appropriate level of precision.