A scientist obtains the number 1250.37986 on a calculator. If this number actually has four (4) significant figures, how should it be written?

A) 1251

B) 1250.3799

C) 1250.4

D) 1.250 x 10^3

E) 1.250 x 10^-3

Answer: D

Explanation:

Not A: You don't round up to 1251 because 3 is less than 5

Not B: That's more than 4 sig figs

Not C: More than 4 sig figs

D: 1.250 has 4 sig figs and 1250 is the correct answer

Not E: negative exponent makes it into decimal which is way off

D

Explanation:

the zero is trailing with a decimal so it counts. A is wrong because you can't round up, C is too many SF and E is wrong because a negative exponent would give you. 001250