5.42 - Measurement errors and measurement uncertainties Flashcards
1
Q
What is random error?
A
An error caused by unpredictable changes in conditions, such as temperature or pressure, or by a difference in recording that is difficult to get right
2
Q
What is a systematic error?
A
An error caused by the apparatus
3
Q
What would a systematic error look like on a graph?
A
The whole graph being too high or too low, with the gradient being correct
4
Q
When using apparatus, there is always _____:
A
Measurement uncertainty
5
Q
What is measurement uncertainty?
A
The potential error involved when using a piece of apparatus to make a measurement
6
Q
What is the precision of a piece of apparatus?
A
The smallest increment that the apparatus can read to
7
Q
What is the uncertainty in a mass of 2.43g?
A
±0.005g
