1.20×10³
- Input
- 1.20e3
- Expected output
- 3 algarismos significativos
The zero after 2 is explicitly significant.
significant figures in scientific notation
Significant Figures in Scientific Notation
In scientific notation, all digits of the coefficient are significant. 1200 is ambiguous; 1.200×10³ has exactly 4 significant figures.
Scientific notation resolves ambiguity
- 1200 could have 2, 3 or 4 significant figures. 1.2×10³ = 2 sig figs; 1.20×10³ = 3 sig figs; 1.200×10³ = 4 sig figs. The exponent never counts.
Examples
Safe use
- Input
- context + tool result
- Expected output
- interpreted with limits and next steps
Use the result as technical or educational support, keeping the tool limits explicit in the workflow.
Full tool FAQ
It is a way to write numbers as a × 10ⁿ, where the coefficient a is between 1 and 10 (in absolute value) and n is an integer (positive, negative or zero).
Frequently asked questions
Does the exponent contribute to significant figures?
No. The exponent only indicates magnitude. Only the coefficient digits count.
Does this page replace official or professional review?
No. It helps explain the scenario and use the tool more safely, but real decisions should consider official sources, full context and qualified guidance when needed.