PASCO ME-9849 Significant Figures Set - Manual (Page 22)

Significant Figures Set Circumference, Area, and Volume Calculations
20 ®
Post-Lab Discussion
Have students observe the data table. Ask students what determines the precision of the
circumference, area, and/or volume. Direct students to realize that the exact numbers (2,
π
) are
NOT measured values (or calculated from measured values), hence they do not affect the
precision of the calculation. As a class, make any necessary changes to the calculations.
Questions:
1. The diameter of a circle is 4.32 cm.
- What is the circumference?
- What is the area?
2. In the calculations for question 1, list your measured values and your exact values for each
calculation.
3. Which values contribute to the precision of the final calculated answer? Explain.
4. Which values do not contribute to the precision of the final calculated answer? Explain.