Significant Figures

Significant figures are the digits in a number that carry meaningful information about its precision. They include all certain digits plus the first uncertain (estimated) digit. For example, in 12.34, all four digits are significant; in 0.00456, only the 4, 5, and 6 are significant. The purpose of significant figures is to accurately reflect the reliability of measurements and calculations, ensuring that reported numbers do not imply greater precision than the data justifies. They are essential in scientific and technical work to maintain consistency and avoid overstating accuracy.