Chapter 5, Problem 38A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The apples that could be bought for $2.00 to be determined.

Concept introduction: Scientific notation is quantitative information is called a measurement and exists of a number and a unit. By using scientific notation too large or too small numbers are conveniently expressed.

Answer to Problem 38A

The conversion factor is lb.

Explanation of Solution

Significant figures are first uncertain number plus all certain numbers.

Given 1lb of apples = $0.79.

Conversion factor of this statement is as follows:

  $\frac{\text{1lb}}{\$0.79}\text{or}\frac{\$0.79}{\text{1}\text{lb}}$

First conversion factor is appropriate to quantity the amount of apples that could be purchased for a total of $2.00.

  $2.00\cancel{\text{\$}}\text{×}\frac{1\text{lb}}{\$0.79}\text{=2}\text{.53164557lb}$

By number of significant digits in $2.00 the answer is limited that has three significant digits. It will not round up.

Conclusion

Inherent uncertainty of measuring device determines number of significant figures for a given measurement.