20.2k views
2 votes
How can each individual digit c be outputted?

User Fxlemire
by
7.8k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

Outputting individual digits refers to rounding and using significant figures in calculations. Three-digit approximations are used when data has that level of precision. Too many digits imply false precision and are thus avoided.

Step-by-step explanation:

The method of outputting each individual digit c can be related to significant figures and rounding in calculations. When performing calculations, it's not always necessary, or helpful, to report all the digits your calculator produces. The number of significant figures you use should match the precision of the data you are starting with. We use three digit approximations when all the values in question operate at this level of precision. This approach simplifies the results while maintaining accuracy that reflects the input data's precision.

If we are dealing with measurement, accounting, or statistical analysis, precision is key. When too many digits are used, it suggests a level of precision that is not actually present. This is why random numbers such as .94360 are truncated or rounded to a manageable level of significant figures, like two-digit groups in the given example with Lisa generating random numbers. In rounding, an 8 rounds the preceding number up (e.g., 1 to 2) and numbers like the 2 may be dropped if not within the significant figure limitation.

User Chovy
by
7.1k points