Systematic Errors & Random Uncertainty

Front

What is uncertainty in measurements?

Back

Uncertainty refers to the doubt that exists about the result of any measurement. It arises from variations in the data obtained and is expressed as a range, such as 20 ± 2 °C.

Front

What do random errors affect in measurements?

Back

Random errors lead to a lack of precision in the measurement.

Front

What does a bullseye with low accuracy and high precision indicate?

Back

It indicates that the measurements are consistently close to each other but far from the true value.

Front

What does the dashed line in a graph typically represent?

Back

The dashed line often represents the line of best fit.

Front

Which statement about systematic errors is NOT true?

Back

Repeating the observations or increasing the sample size can eliminate systematic errors.

Front

Define systematic errors.

Back

Systematic errors are reproducible inaccuracies that consistently occur in the same direction due to flaws in the measurement system.

Front

What is the difference between accuracy and precision?

Back

Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true value, while precision refers to how consistent repeated measurements are.

Front

How can systematic errors be identified?

Back

Systematic errors can be identified by comparing measurements to a known standard or by analyzing the consistency of results.

Front

What is the role of error bars in data representation?

Back

Error bars represent the uncertainty or variability in the data, indicating the range of possible values.

Front

What is a common source of random errors?

Back

Random errors can arise from unpredictable fluctuations in the measurement process, such as environmental changes.