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Ch.1 - Matter, Measurement & Problem Solving
Tro - Chemistry: A Molecular Approach 5th Edition
Tro5th EditionChemistry: A Molecular ApproachISBN: 9780134874371Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksTro 5th EditionCh.1 - Matter, Measurement & Problem SolvingProblem 74c
Chapter 1, Problem 74c

Read each measurement to the correct number of significant figures. Laboratory glassware should always be read from the bottom of the meniscus. Digital balances normally display mass to the correct number of significant figures for that particular balance.
Digital balance displaying a mass of 36.50 grams, illustrating significant figures in measurements.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Observe the digital balance display carefully.
Note the value shown on the display, which is 36.50 grams.
Identify the number of significant figures in the measurement. Each digit displayed by the digital balance is considered significant.
Count the significant figures: 3, 6, 5, and 0. Therefore, the measurement has four significant figures.
Record the measurement as 36.50 grams, ensuring to include all four significant figures.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Significant Figures

Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. This includes all non-zero digits, any zeros between significant digits, and trailing zeros in the decimal portion. Understanding significant figures is crucial for accurately reporting measurements in scientific contexts, as they indicate the certainty of the measurement.
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Meniscus Reading

The meniscus is the curve at the surface of a liquid in a container, such as a graduated cylinder or a beaker. When measuring liquid volumes, it is essential to read from the bottom of the meniscus to ensure accuracy. This practice helps avoid parallax errors and ensures that the measurement reflects the true volume of the liquid.
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Digital Balance Accuracy

Digital balances are designed to provide precise mass measurements, typically displaying results to the correct number of significant figures based on the balance's calibration. Understanding how to interpret the readings from a digital balance, including recognizing the significance of each digit displayed, is vital for accurate mass determination in laboratory settings.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Read each measurement to the correct number of significant figures. Laboratory glassware should always be read from the bottom of the meniscus. Digital balances normally display mass to the correct number of significant figures for that particular balance.

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Textbook Question

For each number, underline the zeroes that are significant and draw an x through the zeroes that are not. a. 1,050,501 km b. 0.0020 m c. 0.000000000000002 s d. 0.001090 cm

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Textbook Question

How many significant figures are in each number? c. 108,700 km

Textbook Question

How many significant figures are in each number? d. 1.563300×1011 m

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Textbook Question

Human fat has a density of 0.918 g/cm3. How much volume (in cm3) is gained by a person who gains 10.0 lb of pure fat? the reliability of a Measurement and Significant Figures

Textbook Question

Read each measurement to the correct number of significant figures. Laboratory glassware should always be read from the bottom of the meniscus. Digital balances normally display mass to the correct number of significant figures for that particular balance.