The Box-and-Dot Method: A Simple Strategy for Counting Significant Figures

W. Kirk Stephenson
Department of Science and Mathematics, Angelina College, Lufkin, TX 75901
J. Chem. Educ., 2009, 86 (8), p 933
DOI: 10.1021/ed086p933
Publication Date (Web): August 1, 2009
History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

A visual method for counting significant digits is presented. This easy-to-learn (and easy-to-teach) method, designated the box-and-dot method, uses the device of "boxing" significant figures based on two simple rules, then counting the number of digits in the boxes.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Interdisciplinary / Multidisciplinary

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Problem Solving / Decision Making

Keywords (Subject):

Mathematics / Symbolic Mathematics
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  • Received: August 03, 2009

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