Sig Figs Rules & Reading a Buret

  1. Rules of Significant Figures

    • All non-zero digits are significant.

    • Any zeros between significant digits are significant.

    • Leading zeros are not significant.

    • Trailing zeros in a number with a decimal point are significant.

    • Exact numbers (counts or defined quantities) have an infinite number of significant figures.

  2. Addition and Subtraction

    • The result should be rounded to the least number of decimal places of any number in the operation.

  3. Multiplication and Division

    • The result should be rounded to the least number of significant figures of any number in the operation.

  4. Temperature Conversions

    • From Fahrenheit to Celsius:
      C=59(F−32)C = \frac{5}{9}(F - 32)

    • From Celsius to Kelvin:
      K=C+273.15K = C + 273.15

  5. Mixed Mathematical Operations

    • Perform operations in the correct order (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction).

    • Maintain significant figures throughout the calculations, applying rounding rules accordingly based on the operation.

  6. Working with Word Problems

    • Carefully read and identify the question being asked.

    • Extract relevant information and data.

    • Write down the mathematical expressions needed to solve the problem.

    • Solve step-by-step, ensuring to apply significant figures rules at the end.

  7. Reading a Buret

    • Read the bottom of the meniscus at eye level to avoid parallax errors.

    • Ensure the buret is upright to ensure accuracy.

    • A buret has 0 at the top and 50 at the bottom.

    • After getting the number (make sure it is to two decimal places), subtract that number from 50.