Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Measured Numbers
Measured numbers are values obtained through measurement and are subject to uncertainty. They include a degree of error based on the precision of the measuring instrument used. For example, the mass of a patient measured as 67.5 kg reflects the limitations of the scale, indicating that the true mass could vary slightly.
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Exact Numbers
Exact numbers are values that are counted or defined and have no uncertainty associated with them. They are considered to be infinitely precise. Examples include the number of patients in a study or defined quantities like 100 centimeters in a meter, which do not vary regardless of measurement conditions.
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Significant Figures
Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision, including all non-zero digits, any zeros between significant digits, and trailing zeros in the decimal portion. Understanding significant figures is crucial for interpreting measured numbers, as they indicate the reliability of the measurement and help in maintaining precision in calculations.
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