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Estimation, Approximation, and Significant Figures

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31 views7 pages

Estimation, Approximation, and Significant Figures

Uploaded by

Ankur Mishra
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Chapter: Estimation, Approximation, and Significant Figures

Overview

This chapter deals with the concepts of estimation, approximation, and significant figures. These are
crucial in scientific and mathematical calculations to ensure precision and accuracy. Understanding
these concepts helps in reducing errors and making sense of large or small numbers in a manageable
way.

1. Estimation

Estimation involves finding an approximate value that is reasonably close to the actual value. It is
useful when an exact number is not needed or when a quick calculation is required.

In other words, Estimation gives a rough idea quickly by rounding numbers.


2. Approximation

Approximation involves finding a value that is close to the actual value but more practical or simpler
to use. It often involves rounding numbers to a certain number of decimal places or significant
figures.

In other words, Approximation gives a value close to the actual one, often using rounding
rules.
3. Significant Figures

Significant figures (sig figs) are the digits in a number that carry meaningful information about its
precision. This includes all digits except leading and trailing zeros where they serve as placeholders.

In other words, Significant figures are the digits that carry meaningful information about the
precision of a measurement.

Rules for Determining Significant Figures:

1. All non-zero digits are significant.


2. Any zeros between significant digits are significant.
3. Leading zeros are not significant.
4. Trailing zeros in a decimal number are significant.
Applications in Calculations

When performing mathematical operations, the number of significant figures in the result is
determined by the original numbers involved.

Addition and Subtraction

When adding or subtracting, the result should have the same number of decimal places as the term
with the fewest decimal places.
Multiplication and Division

When multiplying or dividing, the result should have the same number of significant figures
as the number with the fewest significant figures.

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