If the question uses 55 degrees celsius, and u need to convert it into Kelvins, so it can be used properly in the formula. Would my answer remain with 2 significant figures or 3? When you add 273 to 55 it becomes 3. (all other data is given with 4 significant figures)
adding and subtracting uses the least precise number to figure sig figs
so the 55 +273= 318 would be 3 sig figs as both numbers are the same precision. Another example: 123.55 + 34= 157.55 BUT 34 is the least precise number so the decimals are insignificant so it must be rounded to 158 which is 3 sig figs
Don’t forget these are all measured numbers where the last digit is estimated. In the case of 34 that number could have been 33.5 or 34.4 both round to 34
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