Looking for an easy way to round numbers to three significant figures? Our free Three Significant Figures Calculator helps you instantly round any number with step-by-step solutions and examples. Whether you are solving math, physics, or chemistry problems, this tool will save you time and prevent mistakes.
📌 Tip:
If you want to round numbers to any number of significant figures, try our main Significant Figures Calculator
It allows you to select 2, 3, 4, 5, or more significant figures and works for multiplication, division, and scientific notation.
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| 3 Significant Figures Calculator |
What Are Three Significant Figures?
Significant figures (often called sig figs) are the digits in a number that carry meaning and contribute to its precision.
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Non-zero digits are always significant.
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Zeros between non-zero digits are significant.
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Leading zeros (zeros before the first non-zero digit) are not significant.
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Trailing zeros (zeros after the decimal point) are significant.
👉 Example:
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12.345 → Rounded to 3 significant figures = 12.3
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0.004567 → Rounded to 3 significant figures = 0.00457
How to Use the Three Significant Figures Calculator
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Enter your number into the input box.
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Select "3 Significant Figures" from the rounding option.
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Click Calculate.
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Instantly see the result along with the step-by-step explanation.
📌 Our tool works for:
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Whole numbers
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Decimal numbers
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Scientific notation
Examples of Rounding to 3 Significant Figures
Example 1: Whole Number
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Number: 45678
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Rounded to 3 s.f. = 45700
Example 2: Decimal Number
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Number: 0.0034567
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Rounded to 3 s.f. = 0.00346
Example 3: Scientific Notation
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Number: 6.02214076 × 10²³
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Rounded to 3 s.f. = 6.02 × 10²³
Why Are Three Significant Figures Important?
Using three significant figures provides:
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Consistency in reporting results.
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Accuracy in scientific calculations.
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Standardization in exams and textbooks.
This level of precision is commonly used in physics, chemistry, and engineering.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
H3: How do you round 23456 to three significant figures?
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Step 1: Identify the first three digits → 234.
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Step 2: Round the rest → 23500.
H3: Can the calculator handle very small numbers?
Yes! For example, 0.000456789 → 0.000457 (3 s.f.).
H3: Is this tool free?
Yes, our Three Significant Figures Calculator is 100% free and works instantly online.
H2: Related Calculators
Conclusion
Rounding numbers to three significant figures is an essential skill in mathematics, science, and engineering. It ensures precision while avoiding unnecessary complexity. With our free Three Significant Figures Calculator, you can quickly and accurately round any number without worrying about mistakes.
Whether you are preparing for exams, solving homework, or working on scientific research, this tool provides step-by-step explanations and instant results.
👉 For more flexibility, try our main Significant Figures Calculator, which allows you to round to 2, 3, 4, 5, or more significant figures and supports multiplication, division, and scientific notation.
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