SE: accuracy, precision & errors

Question 1

precision

Answer 1

when multiple readings are very close to or the same as one another

Question 1

accuracy

Answer 1

when a reading is very close to or the same as the true value

Question 2

zero error & how to fix

Answer 2

an instrument shows a non-zero reading when the reading should be zero. use “tare/zero” function to reset the scale.

Question 3

parallax error

Answer 3

when the marking on an instrument is viewed from the wrong angle

Question 4

random error

Answer 4

unknown, unpredictable error (e.g. human reaction time, environmental conditions)