Question

look at the rulers below and use each one in turn to measure the gray line. remember, precision is limited to one tenth of the smallest division. for each ruler estimate the last digit. that is, for the first ruler, estimate to the tenths place. for the second ruler, estimate to the hundredths place. to do the estimating you must imagine that the space between the markings on the ruler can be divided into ten smaller spaces. use these imaginary spaces to measure the last digit. assume the rulers measure in cm. questions - measurement & significant figures measurement using top ruler: __________ number of significant figure: ____ measurement using bottom ruler: ________ number of significant figure: ______

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze top ruler

The top ruler has markings in whole - centimeters. We estimate to the tenths place. Suppose the end of the gray line is between 1 and 2 cm. If we estimate, say it is at 1.3 cm. The significant figures for a measurement like 1.3 cm is 2 (the 1 and the 3 are significant).

Step2: Analyze bottom ruler

The bottom ruler has markings in tenths of a centimeter. We estimate to the hundredths place. Suppose the end of the gray line is at 13.56 cm. The significant figures for 13.56 cm is 4 (1, 3, 5, and 6 are significant).

Answer:

Measurement using top ruler: 1.3 cm
Number of significant figure: 2
Measurement using bottom ruler: 13.56 cm
Number of significant figure: 4