College

Select the answer with the correct number of significant figures for the calculation:

[tex]\[ 31.580 + 4.26 = \][/tex]

A. 35.8
B. 35.84
C. 35.840

Answer :

To solve this problem and determine the correct number of significant figures in the addition, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Numbers and Decimals:
We have two numbers: 31.580 and 4.26.

2. Determine the Significant Figures in Each Number:
- 31.580 has three decimal places.
- 4.26 has two decimal places.

3. Perform the Addition:
Add the two numbers together:
[tex]\(31.580 + 4.26 = 35.840\)[/tex].

4. Determine the Number of Decimal Places in the Result:
When adding numbers, the result should have the same number of decimal places as the number with the fewest decimal places. In this case, 4.26 has fewer decimal places (two).

5. Round the Result:
We need to round 35.840 to two decimal places, which gives us 35.84.

Therefore, the answer with the correct number of significant figures is 35.84.