Question

which of the following explains the correct number of significant figures for this calculation: 2.34 cm × 1.2 cm? 2.9 cm³, the answer is limited to the same decimal places as the limiting term; 2.808 cm³, the answer is limited to the total significant figures of the limiting term; 2.8 cm³, the answer is limited by the total significant figures of the limiting term; 2.81 cm³, the answer is limited to the same decimal places as the limiting term

Explanation:

Step1: Recall significant figures rule for multiplication

When multiplying, the result should have the same number of significant figures as the term with the least number of significant figures.
2.34 has 3 significant figures, 1.2 has 2 significant figures. So the result is limited by 2 significant figures.

Step2: Calculate the product

Calculate \( 2.34 \times 1.2 \).
\( 2.34 \times 1.2 = 2.808 \).

Step3: Round to significant figures

Round 2.808 to 2 significant figures. Rounding 2.808 to 2 significant figures gives 2.8.

Answer:

2.8 cm³, the answer is limited by the total significant figures of the limiting term