## Speed of Light

$c=\lambda v$

Matia Kim 1B
Posts: 60
Joined: Fri Apr 06, 2018 11:03 am

### Speed of Light

In terms of given variables (e.g. speed of light), how many significant figures is recommended to answer a problem?

Sarah Jeong 4F
Posts: 30
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:27 am

### Re: Speed of Light

Hi Matia,
I think in terms of sig figs for constant, just copy the full number from that is given on the formula sheet.
But for the actual final answer, use the sig figs of the numbers that are given in the question.

Arlene Linares 3A
Posts: 50
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:25 am

### Re: Speed of Light

Matia Kim 1B wrote:In terms of given variables (e.g. speed of light), how many significant figures is recommended to answer a problem?

Arlene Linares 3A
Posts: 50
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:25 am

### Re: Speed of Light

Sarah Jeong 4F wrote:Hi Matia,
I think in terms of sig figs for constant, just copy the full number from that is given on the formula sheet.
But for the actual final answer, use the sig figs of the numbers that are given in the question.

Thank you the info

Chloe Thorpe 1J
Posts: 77
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:16 am

### Re: Speed of Light

My TA said that we should always use whatever is on the formula sheet so we can avoid as much rounding error as possible. Same goes for other constants (h, R, etc.).

KatelinTanjuaquio 1L
Posts: 69
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:16 am
Been upvoted: 1 time

### Re: Speed of Light

As with all problems, it is best to use the number of figures given on the formula sheet. Then round off your sig figs as given in the question to ensure the most accurate answer.