Significant Figures Calculator

Significant Figures Rules

Significant figures (or significant digits) are the digits in a number that carry meaning contributing to its measurement resolution. They include all non-zero digits, any zeros between non-zero digits, and any trailing zeros in a decimal number.

Rules for Identification

1. Non-zero digits are always significant. (e.g., 123 has 3 sig figs)
2. Any zeros between two significant digits are significant. (e.g., 101 has 3 sig figs)
3. Leading zeros are NEVER significant. (e.g., 0.005 has 1 sig fig)
4. Trailing zeros in a decimal portion ONLY are significant. (e.g., 2.00 has 3 sig figs)

Importance in Science

Significant figures are crucial in scientific measurements to show the precision of the equipment used. Calculations should not result in more precision than the original measurements allowed.