Using a ruler, to how many significant figures should we report any measurement?
Check the final answer first, then review the worked steps.
Problem
Using a ruler, to how many significant figures should we report any measurement?
Step-by-step solution
The ruler has markings every millimeter (0.1 cm). Measurements can be estimated to one decimal place beyond the smallest division, so we can report to the nearest 0.01 cm, which is 3 significant figures.
Answer
3