Question

A series of measurements in the lab led to an experimental result of 32.9 mL, with a calculated standard deviation of 0.3 mL. What is the standard way to report this result?

Answer 1

Answer: The standard way to report this result is $32.9\pm 0.3 mL$

Explanation:

The standard method of representing a result is:

$\text{Calculated value }\pm \text{ Standard deviation}$

The reporting of a result is done in correct significant figures.

We are given:

Calculated value = 32.9 mL

Standard deviation = 0.3 mL

Rule of significant figures applied when numbers are added or subtracted:

The number having less number of significant figures after the decimal point will determine the number of significant figures in the final answer.

Number of significant figures after the decimal point = 1

Hence, the standard way to report this result is $32.9\pm 0.3 mL$