1200 — ambiguous
- Input
- 1200
- Expected output
- 2 sig. (conservador)
By conservative convention, trailing zeros without decimal = not significant.
trailing zeros in integers significant figures
Trailing Zeros in Integers and Ambiguity
The number 1200 is ambiguous: measured to hundreds precision it has 2 sig figs; to tens, 3; to ones, 4. Scientific notation resolves: 1.2×10³, 1.20×10³ or 1.200×10³.
How to eliminate ambiguity
- Practical rule: if the trailing zeros are measured, use a decimal point (1200.) or explicit scientific notation. Otherwise, do not assume significance.
Examples
1.200×10³ — explicit
- Input
- 1.200e3
- Expected output
- 4 sig.
Scientific notation makes all 4 digits explicit.
Full tool FAQ
Significant figures are the digits that carry meaning regarding the precision of a measurement. They include all non-zero digits, sandwiched zeros, trailing zeros after a decimal point and, in some cases, leading zeros after the decimal.
Frequently asked questions
What about "1200." with a trailing decimal?
An explicit trailing decimal point (1200.) indicates the zeros are significant — result: 4 significant figures.
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.