Chapter 1.3, Problem 6PPB

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The density of the empty container should be calculated with giving the appropriate significant figure.

Concept introduction:

Density: The density of the substance is calculated using the formula:

$\text{density = }\frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$

Significant figures: The digits having a meaning in a given number are called as significant figures.

Significant figures –calculation rules

• Significant figure is a non-zero number (4443.2 has five significant figures)
• Zeros placement in between non-zero number are significant figures (40005 has five significant figures).
• Zeros before the non-zero number are not significant number (0.00040005 has five significant figures).
• Zeros after the non-zero number are significant in case of that number contains decimal point (4.5000 has five significant figures).
• Zeros after the non-zero number may or may not be a significant figure in case of that number does not have a decimal point (500 may have 1, 2 or 3 significant figures).  In this cases use scientific notation to avoid ambiguity.