To solve [tex]\( 45.2 \times 0.035 \)[/tex] and report the answer to the correct number of significant figures, follow these steps:
1. Multiply the two numbers:
[tex]\[
45.2 \times 0.035 = 1.582
\][/tex]
2. Determine the number of significant figures in each number:
- The number [tex]\( 45.2 \)[/tex] has 3 significant figures.
- The number [tex]\( 0.035 \)[/tex] has 2 significant figures.
3. Determine the number of significant figures for the result:
- When multiplying, the result should have the same number of significant figures as the factor with the fewest significant figures.
- In this case, [tex]\( 0.035 \)[/tex] has the fewest significant figures (2 significant figures).
4. Round the result to the correct number of significant figures:
- The result [tex]\( 1.582 \)[/tex] should be rounded to 2 significant figures.
- Rounding [tex]\( 1.582 \)[/tex] to 2 significant figures gives [tex]\( 1.6 \)[/tex].
Therefore, [tex]\( 45.2 \times 0.035 = 1.6 \)[/tex] when reported to the correct number of significant figures.
