Question

Estimate, then solve using the standard algorithm:

a) 3.2 x 41
b) 0.45 x 62
c) 6.83 x 683
d) 171.76 x 555

Answer 1

The question requires solving calculations and reporting with the appropriate number of significant figures. For multiplication, the result must have as many significant figures as the least precise number used, and for addition/subtraction, it must be rounded to the least significant decimal place.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question involves performing calculations with numbers and reporting answers with the correct number of significant figures. It's important to be familiar with the rules for determining significant figures in both multiplication and addition/subtraction contexts. Also, when multiplying or adding numbers, the least precise measurement (the one with the fewest significant figures) determines the precision of the answer.

• For multiplication: the number of significant figures in the result should match the number input with the least significant figures.
• For addition/subtraction: the final answer should be rounded to the least precise decimal place.

Example calculations:

1. 62.8 x 34 = 2135.2 which should be reported as 2100 (because 62.8 has three significant figures, and 34 has two, so the final answer should also have two significant figures).
2. 0.147 +0.0066 +0.012 = 0.1656 which should be reported as 0.166 (because the least precise measurement, 0.012, has two decimal places, so the final answer should also have two decimal places).