Significant Figures Calculator
Easily calculate and round numbers to a specified number of significant figures. Perfect for scientific, engineering, and mathematical calculations.
Enter a number and the desired number of significant figures below:
Result:
Understanding Significant Figures
Significant figures (also known as significant digits) are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. They are important in science and engineering for reporting numerical values with appropriate accuracy.
Rules for Significant Figures:
- All non-zero digits are significant. (e.g., 123.45 has 5 significant figures)
- Zeros between non-zero digits are significant. (e.g., 102.03 has 5 significant figures)
- Leading zeros are not significant. (e.g., 0.0012 has 2 significant figures)
- Trailing zeros in a number containing a decimal point are significant. (e.g., 1.200 has 4 significant figures)
- Trailing zeros in a whole number with no decimal point are not significant. (e.g., 1200 may have 2, 3, or 4 significant figures depending on context, in such cases scientific notation clarifies the number of significant figures)
How to Use This Calculator:
Simply enter the number you wish to round in the "Enter Number" field and specify the desired number of significant figures in the "Significant Figures" field. Click the "Calculate" button to get the result rounded to your specified precision. Use the "Reset" button to clear the inputs and results.
For more detailed information, you can refer to resources on significant figures in scientific and mathematical textbooks or online encyclopedias.