Question

Which digits in a measurement are always significant? Check all that apply.

A) Zeros to the left of the decimal point
B) Zeros between nonzero numbers
C) Zeros to the right of the decimal point
D) Nonzero numbers

Answer 1

In a measurement, nonzero numbers, zeros between nonzero numbers, and zeros to the right of the decimal point following a nonzero number are always considered significant. These rules are used to determine the precision of the reported measurement. so, option B is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The digits in a measurement that are always significant include nonzero numbers, zeros between nonzero numbers (often referred to as captive zeros), and zeros to the right of the decimal point when they come after a nonzero digit. Therefore, when analyzing reported values:

1. Nonzero numbers (D) are always considered significant because each represents a definite amount.
2. Zeros that appear between nonzero numbers (B), also known as captive zeros, are significant because they are a precise part of the measurement.
3. Zeros to the right of the decimal point (C) are significant if they follow a nonzero number, as they indicate the precision of the measurement.

However, zeros to the left of a nonzero digit, like those at the beginning of a number (leading zeros), are not significant as they simply indicate the position of the decimal point.