Repeating Decimal

[Tarika Gujral 1K]

When we have a repeating decimal number, such as 1/3, do we simply follow “normal” (lowest decimal point value for addition/subtraction and lowest number of sig figs for multiplication/division)? Or are there special rules? Also, how does rounding work?

[Diane Kang 2F]

To my understanding, yes, you treat repeating decimals numbers, such as 1/3, as numbers with a finite number of decimal places. There are no special rules for significant figures for nonterminating decimals.

When performing your calculations do not round nonterminating decimals. So on your calculator, for example, enter (1/3) instead of 0.333 since (1/3) is more accurate. Only round your final value according to the sigfig rules.

[Ian Marquez 2K]

Like said before, enter the fraction instead of rounding something such as 1/3 to .333 ensure a more accurate result. When it comes to rounding, try to hold off on any rounding as much as possible until you get to the final piece of data the question is asking for. Then apply the rules of sig figs.

[juliasloan_4g]

Using the fraction is a good idea, or just keeping as many decimals as possible until the end result when you can round to the proper number of sig figs. As long as you keep a reasonable amount of decimal places, the end result shouldn't change