@robjohn ChatGPT says this, "Your understanding of significant digits is mostly correct. Let's break down your questions:
1. **Regarding $7800$ and $7878$:** Your reasoning is valid. In the number $7800$, the zeros are considered placeholders, and the significant figures are $7$ and $8$. Zeros used in this way are not considered significant.
2. **Regarding $46300$:** You've grasped the concept well. The ambiguity arises because without additional context, it's not clear whether the trailing zeros are significant or merely placeholders. They could represent actual precision or be used to h…