Final answer:
The statement that the US population was approximately 3.14 x 10^8 in 2012 is false, as official census data suggest a slightly higher figure of approximately 3.17 x 10^8.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the actual population of the US (as of 2012) is approximately 3.14 x 108 is False. The U.S. Census Bureau information suggests that in January 2014, the population was approximately 317 million. Given the steady population growth in the United States due to a higher fertility rate and positive net migration, it's reasonable to believe the population in 2012 would be slightly less than the 2014 figure but still round to about 3.17 x 108 people. Therefore, the figure of 3.14 x 108 would be an underestimation.
Significant figures in calculations are important for properly representing population data; estimating the population to the nearest million is standard due to births, deaths, and migration. Population measurements should be reported with appropriate significant figures to reflect the uncertain nature of such large-scale counting endeavors accurately.