Determining Errors
Determining Errors
Systematic Error
· Measurements deviate from the correct value by the same amount each time.
· Errors have a pattern
Example: Time on a watch is always 5 minutes ahead of the true time
Random Error
· Errors have no pattern
Example: Everyone’s watch shows a different time
Uncertainty in Measurement
· Number ± error
· It is the amount a number may be off from the correct value.
Example: Age ±365 days
Ratio Comparison
· Shows how two numbers compare
· Reduced fraction shows comparison
Percent Error
· Percentage measurements are off from standard/correct value
· Absolute value