Question

Which of the following statements is not correct regarding significant figures?

• A. All the zeroes between two non-zero digits are significant, no matter where the decimal point is
• B. The terminal zero(s) in a number without a decimal point are significant
• C. The terminal zero(s) in a number with a decimal point are significant
• D. To remove ambiguities in determining the number of significant figures, the best way is to report the measurement in the powers of 10

Hint:

Always use scientific notation to express numbers clearly and remove ambiguity in significant figures. Memorize rules for zeros: between non-zero digits → significant; trailing zeros without decimal → ambiguous; trailing zeros with decimal → significant.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Terminal zeros in a number without a decimal point are ambiguous and may or may not be significant. Using scientific notation avoids confusion. All zeros between non-zero digits are always significant. Terminal zeros after a decimal point are significant.