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Ch.1 - Matter, Measurement & Problem Solving
Chapter 1, Problem 8

Indicate the number of significant figures in each number. If the number is an exact number, indicate an unlimited number of significant figures. a. 318,857,056 (2014 U.S. population) b. 2.54 cm = 1 in. c. 11.4 g/cm³ (density of lead) d. 12 = 1 dozen.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Identify the number of significant figures in the number 318,857,056. Since this is a measured value (2014 U.S. population), count all the digits as significant. There are no leading or trailing zeros to consider.
Step 2: Examine the conversion factor 2.54 cm = 1 in. This is a defined relationship between centimeters and inches, making it an exact number. Therefore, it has an unlimited number of significant figures.
Step 3: Look at the number 11.4 g/cm³, which represents the density of lead. This is a measured value, so count all the digits. The number has three significant figures.
Step 4: Consider the number 12 = 1 dozen. This is a defined quantity, meaning it is an exact number. Therefore, it has an unlimited number of significant figures.
Step 5: Summarize the findings: a. 318,857,056 has 9 significant figures, b. 2.54 cm = 1 in. has unlimited significant figures, c. 11.4 g/cm³ has 3 significant figures, d. 12 = 1 dozen has unlimited significant figures.