What encompasses the definition of significant figures?

The definition of significant figures includes non-zero numbers, zeros that occur between non-zero digits, and trailing zeros in a decimal number. This means that all the digits that contribute to the precision of a measured value are considered significant.

Non-zero digits are always significant because they represent measurable quantities. Zeros that are situated between two non-zero digits are also significant because they indicate a specific value in the measurement. For example, in the number 105, the zero is significant as it denotes that the measurement is not just 15 but actually includes a hundred's place value.

Trailing zeros in a decimal (like in 2.300) are significant because they show the precision of the measurement. If they were not significant, the number would merely be represented as 2.3, which could imply a different level of accuracy.

Understanding significant figures is essential in scientific measurements as it reflects the certainty of the data collected, guiding how calculations should be reported and interpreted.