How many significant figures are in 25.030, 0.006070, 1.004, and 1.300520 and why?

Significant Figures in Numbers

25.030: 5 because zeroes are after the decimal point.

0.006070: 4 because 2 zeroes are after the decimal point.

1.004: 4 because zeroes are between numbers.

1.300520: 7 because all digits are significant, including the zeroes after the decimal point.

Numbers other than 0 are always considered significant figures. The zero's position relative to other numbers or the decimal point determines if it is significant.

Explanation:

The significant figures are figures that convey the value and accuracy of a measurement. Zeros in a number can either be significant or not depending on their position. Zeros to the right of all numbers are considered significant as they indicate the precision of the measurement. Zeros to the left of other numbers are not significant and only serve as placeholders for the decimal point.

Using the above criteria, we can determine the significant figures in the given numbers:

• 25.030: 5 significant figures, as all digits are significant.
• 0.006070: 4 significant figures, with the leading zeros not being significant.
• 1.004: 4 significant figures, as all digits are significant.
• 1.300520: 7 significant figures, as all digits, including the zeroes after the decimal point, are significant.

Why are certain numbers considered significant figures?

The significance of numbers in terms of significant figures is based on their role in conveying the value and precision of a measurement. Zeros can be significant or not depending on their position relative to other numbers or the decimal point. In scientific calculations, having the correct number of significant figures is crucial for accurate results.