Quick guide
How to use this calculator
- Enter the value exactly as written, optionally in scientific notation.
- Read one count or an ambiguity range.
- Add a decimal marker or use scientific notation to express trailing-zero intent.
Calculation method
Notation carries precision information
Leading zeros are place holders. Embedded zeros and written decimal trailing zeros are significant. In a whole number such as 1200, the trailing zeros may or may not be significant, so a range is the truthful answer.
Worked example
Clarifying 1200
Plain 1200 may carry two to four significant figures, while 1200. explicitly carries four.
sig(1200) = 2–4; sig(1200.) = 4
Supported inputs
Precision and limits
Scientific notation
Use forms such as 1.20e3 to make three significant figures explicit.
Exponent
Use an exponent from −100 to 100.