Answer :
To find the correctly rounded answer for the sum [tex]\(16.5 + 22.289\)[/tex], we'll consider significant figures:
1. Understand Significant Figures: Significant figures in a number are the digits that contribute to its precision. When performing addition or subtraction, the result should be rounded to the least number of decimal places among the numbers involved.
2. Look at the Decimal Places:
- The number [tex]\(16.5\)[/tex] has one decimal place.
- The number [tex]\(22.289\)[/tex] has three decimal places.
3. Determine the Limiting Factor: In this problem, the number with the least decimal places is [tex]\(16.5\)[/tex] (one decimal place).
4. Perform the Calculation:
- Add the numbers: [tex]\(16.5 + 22.289 = 38.789\)[/tex].
5. Round to the Correct Decimal Place:
- Since our limiting factor is one decimal place, we round 38.789 to one decimal place.
6. Round 38.789 to One Decimal Place:
- Look at the next number after the first decimal digit (which is 7 in 38.789).
- Since this digit (8) is 5 or higher, we round up, resulting in 38.8.
Ultimately, the correct rounded answer is 38.8.
1. Understand Significant Figures: Significant figures in a number are the digits that contribute to its precision. When performing addition or subtraction, the result should be rounded to the least number of decimal places among the numbers involved.
2. Look at the Decimal Places:
- The number [tex]\(16.5\)[/tex] has one decimal place.
- The number [tex]\(22.289\)[/tex] has three decimal places.
3. Determine the Limiting Factor: In this problem, the number with the least decimal places is [tex]\(16.5\)[/tex] (one decimal place).
4. Perform the Calculation:
- Add the numbers: [tex]\(16.5 + 22.289 = 38.789\)[/tex].
5. Round to the Correct Decimal Place:
- Since our limiting factor is one decimal place, we round 38.789 to one decimal place.
6. Round 38.789 to One Decimal Place:
- Look at the next number after the first decimal digit (which is 7 in 38.789).
- Since this digit (8) is 5 or higher, we round up, resulting in 38.8.
Ultimately, the correct rounded answer is 38.8.